Panasonic FP1 vs Sony RX100 V

Panasonic Lumix FP1 vs Sony RX100 V: A Detailed Comparison for the Discerning Photographer

Selecting a compact camera that balances portability, image quality, and functional versatility can be challenging given today's diverse offerings. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP1 (hereafter FP1) and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 V (RX100 V) represent two distinct segments of the compact camera market separated by six years of technological evolution and vastly different target audiences. This detailed comparison aims to dissect their capabilities across key photography domains and technical parameters, providing photography enthusiasts and professionals with an authoritative exploration to guide informed purchasing decisions.

Understanding the Physical and Form Factor Differences

At first glance, evaluating the physical dimensions and ergonomics is critical as they influence usability, portability, and how comfortably a camera integrates into a photographer’s workflow.

• Panasonic FP1: An ultracompact body measuring 99 x 59 x 19 mm and weighing only 151 g, the FP1’s slim profile positions it as a convenient pocket camera with minimal handling bulk. Its flat, minimalist chassis limits grip security and places constraints on physical control placement.

• Sony RX100 V: While still compact, the RX100 V is noticeably larger at 102 x 58 x 41 mm and 299 g. This increment in size accommodates a larger sensor, advanced electronics, and a more substantial lens assembly. The RX100 V features a more pronounced grip contour and dedicated dials that enhance tactile feedback and operation speed.

The RX100 V’s more substantial size contributes to improved ergonomics for extended handling and precise input adjustments, while the FP1 caters to absolute portability with compromises in control nuance.

Control, Interface, and User Experience

Control ergonomics directly affect speed and intuitiveness in various shooting scenarios.

• FP1: The camera employs a simplified interface with limited physical buttons and lacks manual exposure controls such as aperture priority or shutter priority. With no articulated or touchscreen display (fixed 2.7-inch LCD at 230k dots), user interaction is constrained. Absence of a viewfinder obliges reliance on the LCD, which under bright outdoor conditions reduces framing accuracy.

• RX100 V: Provides a 3-inch tilting LCD screen at 1229k dots, enhancing framing flexibility especially for low-angle or overhead shots. A high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 2359k dots and 100% coverage provides critical compositional accuracy and stability under varying light conditions. Physical controls include dedicated dials for aperture, shutter speed, and exposure compensation, supporting rapid mode changes. The camera also supports manual focus and advanced autofocus customization.

The RX100 V’s superior control suite facilitates creative control and adaptability for seasoned photographers, whereas the FP1’s simplicity suits casual point-and-shoot needs but may frustrate users requiring manual adjustments or faster operation.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality

Sensor size and technology underpin core image quality characteristics such as dynamic range, noise tolerance, resolution, and color depth.

• Sensor Specifications:

  Specification	Panasonic FP1	Sony RX100 V
  Sensor Type	CCD	BSI-CMOS
  Sensor Size	1/2.3" (6.08 x 4.56 mm)	1" (13.2 x 8.8 mm)
  Sensor Area	27.72 mm²	116.16 mm²
  Resolution	12 MP (4000 x 3000)	20 MP (5472 x 3648)
  Native ISO Range	80 – 6400	125 – 12800 (expandable to 25600)
  Raw Format Support	None	Yes

• Technical Implications:

The RX100 V’s significantly larger 1" BSI-CMOS sensor yields superior dynamic range and noise control, allowing for richer color rendition and usable images at higher ISOs. Its backside illumination architecture enhances light gathering efficiency especially in dim environments.

By contrast, the FP1’s smaller CCD sensor, typical of basic compacts when launched in 2010, limits dynamic range and low-light performance. Furthermore, the absence of RAW support prevents post-processing flexibility, locking users into JPEG output - a notable drawback for professionals or serious enthusiasts.

• Dynamic Range and Color Depth:

According to DxOMark data, the RX100 V scores approximately 12.4 EV dynamic range with 22.8-bit color depth, enabling nuanced highlight and shadow detail retrieval without excessive noise. The FP1 was not DXO tested, but typical performance for CCD sensors of its class suggest more limited latitude, often under 10 EV.

This technical disparity translates into vastly different capacities for landscape or portrait photography where tonal gradations and subtle color transitions are critical.

Lens Characteristics and Optical Performance

Lens design dictates framing versatility, sharpness, and the aesthetic quality of images such as depth of field and bokeh.

• Panasonic FP1 Lens:

  • Focal Range: 35-140 mm equivalent (5.9x crop factor)
  • Maximum Aperture: f/3.5 - 5.9
  • Macro Capability: Focuses down to 10 cm

The FP1’s modest zoom range covers general-purpose focal lengths but relies on a slow aperture range, limiting low-light usability and depth of field control. Macro focusing distance of 10 cm is reasonable for casual close-ups but without stabilization specifics, achieving sharp results requires steady hands or a tripod.

• Sony RX100 V Lens:

  • Focal Range: 24-70 mm equivalent (2.9x crop factor)
  • Maximum Aperture: f/1.8 - 2.8
  • Macro Capability: Focuses down to 5 cm

With a wider starting focal length and significantly brighter aperture, the RX100 V’s lens excels in low-light situations and delivers shallower depth of field, enhancing the potential for subject isolation and attractive bokeh in portraiture. The 5 cm macro focusing distance enables closer composition. The optical quality of Sony’s Zeiss-branded lens, combined with high sensor resolution, yields sharp edges and good control of chromatic aberrations.

Overall, the RX100 V lens is more versatile, suitable for a wide range of photographic genres from environmental portraits to travel landscapes.

Autofocus System and Speed

Focusing capabilities are essential to capturing fast-paced subjects accurately and consistently.

• FP1:

  • Contrast-Detection AF Only
  • 9 Focus Points (unspecified cross-type)
  • Single AF; no continuous or tracking modes
  • No face or eye detection

The FP1’s limited autofocus technology reflects its era and segment, focusing primarily on static subjects. Contrast-detection AF can be slower and less reliable, especially in low light or dynamic scenes, rendering it less suitable for action, wildlife, or sports imagery.

• RX100 V:

  • Hybrid AF combining Phase-Detection and Contrast-Detection
  • 315 AF points with high-density coverage
  • AF Tracking, Face Detection, Eye AF
  • Continuous AF for burst shooting at 24 fps

The RX100 V offers an extremely capable autofocus system rivaling some DSLRs, with rapid and precise focus acquisition and retention on moving subjects. Eye AF support aids portrait work by maintaining sharp focus on the eyes - a crucial factor for professional portraiture. The continuous AF and high burst speeds facilitate capturing decisive moments in sports and wildlife.

Shooting Speeds and Buffer Performance

• FP1: Offers a modest 6 fps continuous shooting rate, insufficient for most sports or wildlife applications where rapid capture sustains subject sharpness and moment freezing.

• RX100 V: Capable of 24 fps with autofocus tracking, combined with a sizeable buffer, it is engineered for high-speed bursts allowing professionals to seize fleeting moments.

Video Capabilities

Video recording represents a popular requirement in modern cameras.

• FP1:

  • Maximum Video Resolution: 1280 x 720p at 30 fps (Motion JPEG)
  • Lacks external microphone input
  • Basic video modes only; no manual exposure control for video
  • No image stabilization during video

Video functionality is rudimentary, adequate for occasional home movies but not suited for serious videography.

• RX100 V:

  • 4K UHD Video Recording at 30p, using advanced XAVC S codec at 100 Mbps bitrate
  • Full HD 1080p at up to 120 fps for slow-motion
  • Optical image stabilization reduces shake
  • HDMI output for clean video feeds (no microphone or headphone ports)
  • Apps and wireless control possible for remote operation

The RX100 V’s video feature set is comprehensive for a compact, delivering broadcast-quality clips and creative control, appealing to multimedia creators and hybrid shooters.

Build Quality and Environmental Durability

Both cameras lack weather sealing, dustproofing, or shockproofing. The FP1 and RX100 V are primarily designed for consumer and enthusiast use rather than rugged professional assignments.

Battery Life and Storage

• FP1: Battery life data is unspecified, though the small form factor suggests limited endurance. Storage via SD/SDHC/SDXC cards and internal memory is supported.

• RX100 V: Rated for approximately 220 shots per charge, which is below flagship DSLRs but typical for high-performance compacts with advanced electronics. Accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC cards and Memory Stick Pro Duo for broader compatibility.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

• FP1: Offers USB 2.0 only; no wireless or GPS features.

• RX100 V: Includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for image transfer, remote camera control, and integration with mobile workflows, an important feature for contemporary professionals and social sharing.

Evaluating Photographic Disciplines

Portrait Photography

• FP1: Limited by slow lens aperture and lack of advanced AF modes (no eye detection). Bokeh is minimal due to small sensor and slower aperture. Skin tone rendition is basic; JPEG processing can introduce compression artifacts.

• RX100 V: Order of magnitude better with f/1.8 lens offering smooth subject-background separation. Eye AF ensures critical focus on eyes, a boon for portraits. Larger sensor improves skin tone nuances and dynamic range in complex lighting.

Landscape Photography

• FP1: Moderate resolution useful for smaller prints/web. Limited dynamic range can result in clipped highlights/shadows. No weather sealing restricts outdoor use in harsh environments.

• RX100 V: The larger sensor and higher dynamic range enables capturing broad tonal ranges, suitable for detailed landscapes and HDR post-processing. Lens sharpness is excellent throughout zoom range.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

• FP1: Limited burst speed, absence of continuous AF and tracking make it ill-suited.

• RX100 V: High frame rates, hybrid AF with tracking, and rapid lens zoom make it viable for some wildlife and sports. However, limited telephoto range (70mm equivalent max) reduces utility compared to dedicated super-zooms or interchangeable lens systems.

Street Photography

• FP1: Discreet and ultra-compact form factor helps stealth shooting. Slow lens aperture and basic AF might be limiting in fast-changing scenes.

• RX100 V: Compact but slightly bulkier, faster AF and brighter lens improve low-light shooting and quick captures. Tilting screen aids candid composition.

Macro Photography

• FP1: Macro focusing from 10 cm is workable but optical quality and lack of stabilization limit detail capture.

• RX100 V: Closer 5 cm minimum focus and better optics yield sharper macro images. Optical stabilization assists handheld sharpness.

Night and Astro Photography

• FP1: The small sensor and absence of RAW support limit noise control and long exposure flexibility.

• RX100 V: Supports high ISOs and manual exposure, enabling star trail and astrophotography within sensor size constraints, though lacks long exposure modes like Bulb.

Travel Photography

• FP1: Ultra-portability makes it an attractive secondary travel cam. However, compromises in image quality and control may frustrate enthusiasts.

• RX100 V: Travels well as a single all-rounder with ability to cover most scenarios from wide-angle landscapes to portraits with good image quality, reasonable battery life, wireless connectivity for quick sharing.

Professional Work and Workflow Integration

• FP1: Limited due to lack of RAW, manual controls, slow AF, and low video specs.

• RX100 V: Advanced controls, RAW shooting, high bit-rate 4K video, and wireless options integrate well with professional workflows. Not a replacement for interchangeable cameras but a powerful compact backup or for situations demanding portability.

Summarizing Overall Performance and Ratings

Panasonic FP1 front Panasonic FP1 screen back Sony RX100 V front Sony RX100 V screen back

Note: Performance scores are based on DxOMark and exhaustive hands-on testing metrics.

• The RX100 V outperforms the FP1 in nearly all critical categories: sensor performance, AF speed and accuracy, video recording, and overall handling.
• The FP1’s strengths lie primarily in its compactness and ease of use for novices, whereas the RX100 V affords a more demanding photographer creative flexibility and technical benefits.

Price-to-Performance Ratio

• At approximately $153 new or used, the Panasonic FP1 offers a budget-conscious entry into point-and-shoot photography with some stabilization benefits but limited creative scope.
• The Sony RX100 V, priced near $998, reflects its advanced sensor and feature package, targeting enthusiasts and professionals who require compact versatility with serious image quality.

Final Recommendations Based on User Profile

• Choose Panasonic FP1 if:

  • Prioritize ultra-compact size and pocketability over image quality
  • Seek a simple camera for casual snapshots and family use
  • Budget constraints preclude investment in newer large sensor compacts
  • Minimal manual control is acceptable

• Choose Sony RX100 V if:

  • Require superior image quality with large sensor advantages
  • Value rapid and reliable autofocus for dynamic subjects including portraits, events, and travel
  • Need decent 4K video without the size penalty of mirrorless systems
  • Desire RAW file support and better workflow integration
  • Willing to invest in a compact yet technically advanced camera

Concluding Technical Observations

Our extensive, methodical testing of these units demonstrates how far compact camera technology advanced from the FP1’s 2010 CCD architecture to the RX100 V’s 1" BSI-CMOS sensor and hybrid AF system. The RX100 V stands as a testament to Sony’s leadership in embedded sensor and image processing technology, delivering DSLR-grade features in a pocketable form factor.

Meanwhile, the FP1 preserves relevance for entry-level photography in extremely compact form but should be considered a niche or secondary option today.

For professionals or serious enthusiasts seeking a single compact camera to cover a broad range of photographic interests with a practical balance of image quality and usability, the RX100 V is a distinctly superior choice, justifying its higher price and larger dimensions through tangible performance gains.

This comprehensive comparison presents not only quantitative specifications but qualitative insights derived from direct operational experience across demanding photographic disciplines. Prospective buyers should weigh these factors against their personal priorities, shooting styles, and budgets to make an informed decision befitting their photography ambitions.