Panasonic FP1 vs Sony NEX-5R

Here, we are reviewing the Panasonic FP1 and Sony NEX-5R, former being a Ultracompact while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Panasonic and Sony. There exists a sizable gap between the resolutions of the FP1 (12MP) and NEX-5R (16MP) and the FP1 (1/2.3") and NEX-5R (APS-C) have different sensor dimensions.

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The FP1 was brought out 3 years prior to the NEX-5R and that is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FP1 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony NEX-5R being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving right into a in-depth comparison, here is a concise summary of how the FP1 matches up against the NEX-5R in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP1 & Sony Alpha NEX-5R. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic FP1 Gallery & Sony NEX-5R Gallery.

For those who are aiming to carry your camera frequently, you should factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic FP1 has got exterior dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") and a weight of 151 grams (0.33 lbs) and the Sony NEX-5R has specifications of 111mm x 59mm x 39mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") having a weight of 276 grams (0.61 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic FP1 and Sony NEX-5R in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you use at the time. Below is a front view measurements comparison of the FP1 against the NEX-5R.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FP1 and NEX-5R is 95 and 89 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing just by reading through a spec sheet. The photograph here may give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the FP1 and NEX-5R.

Clearly, each of the cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The FP1 featuring a tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field trickier and the Sony NEX-5R will give you more detail having its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop photos a good deal more aggressively. The older FP1 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.