Panasonic FP1 vs Sony A700

The following is a complete analysis of the Panasonic FP1 and Sony A700, one is a Ultracompact and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the FP1 (12MP) and the A700 (12MP) is relatively close but the FP1 (1/2.3") and A700 (APS-C) have different sensor dimensions.

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The FP1 was released 2 years after the A700 which is a fairly serious gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FP1 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony A700 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving into a more detailed comparison, here is a quick view of how the FP1 matches up against the A700 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP1 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A700. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic FP1 Gallery and Sony A700 Gallery.

If you are looking to travel with your camera frequently, you will want to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic FP1 offers external measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") with a weight of 151 grams (0.33 lbs) and the Sony A700 has specifications of 142mm x 105mm x 80mm (5.6" x 4.1" x 3.1") and a weight of 768 grams (1.69 lbs).

See the Panasonic FP1 and Sony A700 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you select at the time. The following is a front view scale comparison of the FP1 and the A700.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FP1 and A700 is 95 and 58 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very tough to imagine the contrast in sensor dimensions merely by researching a spec sheet. The picture underneath will give you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the FP1 and A700.

As you can see, each of the cameras have the same megapixels albeit different sensor dimensions. The FP1 provides the smaller sensor which will make achieving shallower depth of field tougher. The newer FP1 should have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.