Comparing the Panasonic Lumix FP1 and ZS10: Which Compact Camera Fits Your Lens?

When it comes to compact cameras, Panasonic has long been a player offering nifty gadgets in relatively small packages. The Lumix DMC-FP1 and DMC-ZS10 - two gems from the early 2010s - both carve out their niches but approach the ultracompact camera concept differently. I’ve spent considerable time shooting with both, and in this comparison, I’ll go deep - sensor to shutter speed, ergonomics to autofocus systems - to help you decide which might be your perfect pocket companion.

Let’s dive in with a quick overview before peeling back layers to uncover their real-world prowess.

A Tale of Two Cameras: Size, Build, and Handling Dynamics

First impressions count - and size, weight, and ergonomics frame that initial relationship. The FP1 is the quintessential "ultracompact," as Panasonic describes it, with its slim profile and featherweight feel. The ZS10, though still categorized as compact, noticeably ups the ante in girth and heft.

Here’s a visual breakdown to size up these siblings:

At just 99 x 59 x 19 mm and weighing a mere 151 grams, the FP1 slips effortlessly into the smallest pockets - ideal for those spontaneous street photography moments or casual strolls where you want to keep your load light and discreet. The body is plasticky but well-put-together; it feels nice in hand considering its size but does sacrifice tactile feedback. Its buttons are small and closely packed, which might trip up those with larger fingers or when trying to adjust settings quickly.

Flip over to the ZS10, and you’re handling a chunkier but still pocket-friendly unit (105 x 58 x 33 mm, 219 grams). That extra depth primarily accommodates its extended zoom lens, giving it much broader reach but also more to hold onto. The grip area feels more substantial, lending confidence, particularly for longer shooting sessions or steadier handheld video.

Top-level ergonomics continue the contrast:

The FP1 is refreshingly minimalist - fewer manual dials, no dedicated exposure modes, mostly an auto-snap-and-go experience. Its power and shutter buttons sit near each other, easy to access but lacking customization. No viewfinder, either, so you’re fully reliant on its 2.7-inch fixed LCD, which is pretty basic (more on that shortly).

The ZS10, meanwhile, offers more manual control - the presence of shutter/aperture priority and full manual exposure modes caters to enthusiasts who want granular control without lugging a DSLR around. The addition of a touchscreen improves navigation but also demands more attention.

Display and Interface: Looking Through the Lens and Beyond

Most ultracompacts dispense with complicated viewfinders to save size, and both these cameras follow suit. It’s LCDs all the way here, but how they deliver matters.

The FP1’s 2.7-inch, 230k-dot screen is serviceable but leaves a lot to be desired, especially in bright daylight. Colors often look washed out, and the modest resolution means fine details - and your framing accuracy - can feel a bit soft. It’s a classic case where you might find yourself guessing where to place the horizon line when shooting landscapes.

Compare that to the ZS10’s larger (3-inch), higher-resolution 460k-dot screen - it’s simply easier to compose and review images. The touchscreen adds a modern touch: I appreciated the ability to tap focus points quickly in tricky scenes, something that the FP1 can only dream about. The shell isn’t touch-heavy, thankfully, so it still accommodates button pressing for those moments you want to keep eyes on the viewfinder.

If you need rich feedback or plan to shoot outdoors regularly, the ZS10’s display will save you some frustration.

Sensor Tech and Image Quality: Peeling Back the Pixels

Now, the heart of any camera - the sensor. Both utilize the same sensor size: a typical 1/2.3" sensor measuring 6.08 x 4.56 mm, equating roughly to 27.72 mm² of imaging area. But the FP1 uses a CCD sensor with 12 megapixels, while the ZS10 opts for a 14-megapixel CMOS sensor.

Let’s unpack what that means:

CCD sensors like the FP1’s were once known for excellent color rendition and low noise at base ISOs but tend to consume more power and have slower readout speeds. The FP1 maxes out at ISO 6400, but noise creeps in noticeably as you climb beyond 400 ISO.

The newer CMOS sensor in the ZS10 enables better noise performance, faster readout (feeding its higher frame rate), and more advanced features such as continuous autofocus and video capabilities. Also, that modest jump from 12 to 14 megapixels translates to slightly better detail retention, especially at low ISOs.

In real-world conditions, the ZS10 delivers crisper JPEGs with less chroma noise and better dynamic range retention (though neither camera excels at the DR extremes). The FP1's CCD gives images a nostalgic pop in color but struggles in dim environments, where its contrast detection autofocus can hunt persistently.

For photographers who prize image quality under varied conditions, the ZS10’s CMOS offers a clear advantage.

Autofocus Systems: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Autofocus is one arena where the ZS10 gleams with advantage. The FP1’s 9-point contrast detection AF is comparably slow and prone to “back and forth” hunting, particularly under low light or low contrast scenes. It supports single autofocus only with no continuous or tracking capabilities - which may frustrate those chasing moving subjects.

The ZS10 advances with a 23-point contrast detection AF system, including continuous and tracking modes. It also supports touch-to-focus on the rear LCD, providing rapid subject acquisition.

I’ve tested these on moving subjects - from urban cyclists darting through streets to playful kids - and the ZS10’s AF felt notably more reliable and consistent. The FP1, in contrast, is better reserved for static scenes or anything with predictable movement.

Lens and Zoom: Optics That Define Use Cases

Fixed zoom lenses define these cameras’ photographic reach, and their focal lengths lay the foundation for many use cases.

• FP1: 35-140 mm equivalent (4x optical zoom), max aperture f/3.5-5.9
• ZS10: 24-384 mm equivalent (16x optical zoom), max aperture f/3.3-5.9

If you’re shooting primarily portraits or casual landscapes, the FP1’s range is reasonable - starting at a classic standard 35mm field of view with a short telephoto reach. That helps produce pleasing background separation, although the maximum aperture is modest. Optical image stabilization compensates reasonably well for hand shake at longer focal lengths.

The ZS10’s lens is in a different league - a versatile “superzoom” spanning wide-angle 24mm to telephoto 384mm. This range unlocks creative possibilities: sweeping landscapes, tight wildlife shots, or distant sports events from the sidelines. It also has a close focusing distance of 3cm (versus 10cm on the FP1), which notably enhances macro shot potential.

Of course, superzoom lenses do introduce optical compromises - noticeable distortion at wide angles and softer edges at full zoom - but Panasonic’s optical stabilization and lens efforts keep images reasonably sharp for a compact. It’s a jack-of-many-trades setup.

Speed and Responsiveness: Watching That Shutter Snap

The roots of frustration with compact cameras often lie in delayed capture or laggy interfaces. Here, the ZS10 flexes once more.

• FP1 Continuous shooting: ~6 fps
• ZS10 Continuous shooting: ~10 fps

In burst mode, the ZS10 nearly doubles the FP1, which is quite impressive for cameras of this class and era. Plus, the ZS10 supports faster shutter speeds (up to 1/4000s vs. 1/1600s on the FP1), granting more flexibility in bright light or when freezing fast action.

Video Abilities: Clips Worth Capturing

Video is an increasing priority today, even for casual snappers. The FP1 offers basic HD recording: 1280 x 720 at 30 fps using Motion JPEG - pretty basic, with relatively large file sizes and limited compression efficiency. No microphone jack or manual exposure controls hamper cinematic intentions.

The ZS10 delivers 1080p Full HD at 60 fps with AVCHD and MPEG-4 formats, along with better compression, smoother video, and optical stabilization. It supports HDMI output for direct connection to TVs - a boon for slideshow presentations or video playback.

Battery Life and Storage: How Long Can the Fun Last?

Battery life is often the Achilles heel in compact cameras. Panasonic doesn’t list official FP1 battery endurance, but user reports suggest it tops around 200-250 shots per charge - a limitation when out on long shoots.

The ZS10 officially boasts about 260 shots per charge, improved but still tight relative to mirrorless or DSLRs - packing a spare battery is recommended in any case. Both cameras use SD/SDHC/SDXC cards and have a single card slot.

Connectivity and Extras: Modern Conveniences

Neither camera features Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which is no surprise given their launch dates. The ZS10 does have GPS built-in, tagging your images with location data - a definite bonus for travel photographers who want “where was that taken?” metadata baked in.

USB 2.0 ports exist on both for file transfers, but no HDMI on the FP1, whereas the ZS10 supports it.

Handling Different Genres: Who’s Better At What?

Naturally, the best camera choice often depends on what you shoot. Let’s see how these two stack up across common photography types.

Portrait Photography

Capturing flattering skin tones, creamy bokeh, and sharp eyes is key here.

• FP1’s 35-140 mm lens range covers standard portrait focal lengths, but its smaller sensor and slower lens limit background blur. Autofocus lacks eye detection (common for its era), so you’ll need to rely on composing carefully.
• ZS10’s higher-resolution sensor and wider aperture at the wide end support punchier portraits. Its continuous AF and touch focus make locking onto eyes easier, but at full zoom (telephoto), aperture narrows, limiting bokeh. Still, it wins for general portrait versatility.

Landscape Photography

Dynamic range, resolution, and ruggedness matter most.

• Both sensors struggle in very high-contrast scenes, but ZS10’s slightly larger megapixel count helps pull more detail.
• FP1’s ultracompact build means no weather sealing, nor does the ZS10, so any serious outdoor shooting requires care.
• The ZS10’s 24mm wide angle offers a distinct advantage for expansive vistas over the FP1’s 35mm start.
• For daylight landscapes, ZS10’s superior screen also helps framing.

Wildlife Photography

Speed and reach are essential.

• FP1’s max 140mm (~equivalent 140mm × crop) falls short for most wildlife.
• ZS10’s impressive 16x zoom reaching 384mm shines here, combined with faster autofocus and 10 fps burst shooting - prospects for capturing birds or small mammals improve significantly.

Sports Photography

Similarly reliant on autofocus and timing.

• FP1’s slow AF and limited burst capabilities make it unfit.
• ZS10’s continuous focus tracking and high frame rate make it marginally usable for amateur sports shooters, but don’t expect DSLR-beating performance.

Street Photography

Discreetness, portability, and low-light ability define the picker.

• FP1 wins for sheer stealth and pocketability.
• ZS10’s size compromises discreetness but offers better low-light ISO handling via its CMOS sensor and faster AF.

Macro Photography

Close focusing and sharpness matter.

• FP1 focuses down to 10cm, suitable for general close-ups.
• ZS10 focuses impressively close at 3cm, offering greater creative potential.

Night and Astro Photography

• Neither camera is well-suited for astro photography, given sensor size and max ISO limitations.
• ZS10’s better high ISO performance and video at 60 fps do give some night shooting edge.

Video Capabilities

• ZS10 is clearly superior, with Full HD, 60 fps, and AVCHD format.
• FP1 is limited to 720p and Motion JPEG.

Travel Photography

• FP1 excels in portability and pocketability.
• ZS10 offers more versatility with zoom and GPS but at the cost of size and weight.

Professional Use

• Neither camera is a professional tool; absence of RAW support, slow AF, and limited manual control curtail serious work.
• ZS10’s manual modes and exposure compensation make it more adaptable for enthusiast or semi-pro use.

Summarizing Strengths and Weaknesses

Panasonic FP1 front Panasonic FP1 screen back Panasonic ZS10 front Panasonic ZS10 screen back

In the Field: Real-World Shoot Impressions

Shooting daily life, I favored the FP1’s pocketability for casual street exploring - quick snapshots with little fuss. Images were pleasant in sunlight but occasionally soft or noisy indoors.

The ZS10 pulled ahead when I needed reach or control: birdwatching sessions, capturing family parties, or traveling. Even video recording was notably better, especially handheld with image stabilization.

Overall Performance and Scores

I compiled comprehensive testing data on core metrics, scoring each across key performance categories:

Unsurprisingly, the ZS10 beats out the FP1 in most categories - speed, autofocus, image quality, and versatility - reflecting its newer generation status and more advanced engineering.

Specialized Use Cases and Genre Scores

Breaking it down genre-wise:

• For portraits, landscapes, and macro - ZS10 takes an edge.
• For street and travel where ultra-lightweight and discretion are paramount, FP1 holds some appeal.
• Wildlife and sports? The superzoom and better AF of the ZS10 dominate.

Key Technical Insights from Testing

• The ZS10’s CMOS sensor and Venus Engine FHD processor harmonize for better noise management and faster operations.
• FP1’s CCD sensor, while a bit old school, can render pleasing colors under optimal light but struggles in dynamic and low-light shots.
• Contrast-detection AF systems on both are slower than modern phase detection but ZS10’s multiple focus points and continuous AF help cancel that out somewhat.
• Optical image stabilization on both is effective within their zoom ranges, but the ZS10’s longer lens also pushes the limits, sometimes requiring careful handholding or tripods.
• No RAW support on either limits post-processing latitude; images are locked into JPEG territory, emphasizing in-camera processing quality.

Recommendations: Who Should Buy Which?

• Choose the Panasonic FP1 if:

  • You crave the smallest, lightest camera that fits perfectly in a purse or pocket.
  • Your photography is casual, mostly daylight snapshots, or street photography where discretion is king.
  • You want a simple point-and-shoot with optical stabilization and no hassle.
  • Your budget is tight, and you want an affordable compact.

• Opt for the Panasonic ZS10 if:

  • You want a more versatile all-in-one camera with impressive zoom reach for travel or wildlife.
  • You appreciate manual controls, a quality screen, and faster autofocus.
  • Video recording at Full HD and 60 fps is important to you.
  • A GPS tag feature appeals to your travel photography workflow.
  • You’re okay with slightly larger size and spend a bit more.

Final Thoughts: A Tale of Two Compact Lumix

The Panasonic FP1 and ZS10 each reflect different chapters of compact camera evolution - one a straightforward ultracompact camera geared for simplicity and small size, the other a feature-packed superzoom bridging casual shooters and enthusiasts.

If portability and simplicity are your north star, the FP1 remains a commendable choice, though somewhat dated in performance. For those needing a more capable, versatile tool with wider zoom, better screens, video, and manual control, the ZS10 is clearly a smarter purchase despite the larger footprint.

Choosing between these two really boils down to your shooting style and priorities. Because, as we know from experience, the perfect camera is always the one you’ll want in your hand when the moment arrives.

Happy shooting!

This in-depth comparison comes from testing both cameras extensively in real-world conditions, measuring specifications side by side, and applying professional critique rooted in nearly two decades of camera reviewing experience.