Panasonic FP1 vs Sony A300

Below, we will be reviewing the Panasonic FP1 versus Sony A300, one is a Ultracompact and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the FP1 (12MP) and the A300 (10MP) is relatively comparable but the FP1 (1/2.3") and A300 (APS-C) possess different sensor sizing.

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The FP1 was launched 24 months after the A300 which makes the cameras a generation away from one another. Both cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic FP1 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony A300 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before going through a comprehensive comparison, below is a short overview of how the FP1 matches up against the A300 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP1 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A300. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic FP1 Gallery and Sony A300 Gallery.

If you are planning to travel with your camera often, you have to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FP1 offers physical dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") with a weight of 151 grams (0.33 lbs) while the Sony A300 has proportions of 131mm x 99mm x 75mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") along with a weight of 632 grams (1.39 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FP1 versus Sony A300 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are using during that time. Here is the front view size comparison of the FP1 and the A300.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FP1 and A300 is 95 and 64 respectively.

Quite often, it is tough to visualize the contrast in sensor dimensions merely by going through technical specs. The image here might provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the FP1 and A300.

As you have seen, both the cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The FP1 featuring a smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field tougher and the Panasonic FP1 will show extra detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The more modern FP1 should have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.