Panasonic FP1 vs Sony S980

Its time to look closer at the Panasonic FP1 and Sony S980, former is a Ultracompact while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by companies Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the FP1 (12MP) and the S980 (12MP) is relatively well matched and both cameras offer the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The FP1 was introduced 11 months after the S980 so they are of a similar age. Both the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FP1 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony S980 being a Compact camera.

Before delving right into a more detailed comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the FP1 matches up versus the S980 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP1 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic FP1 Gallery & Sony S980 Gallery.

If you are intending to travel with your camera, you are going to need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FP1 has got 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 S980 has dimensions of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FP1 and Sony S980 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you select at that moment. The following is a front view measurement comparison of the FP1 vs the S980.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FP1 and S980 is 95 and 94 respectively.

Quite often, it can be tough to picture the difference between sensor dimensions just by checking technical specs. The pic below might give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the FP1 and S980.

As you have seen, both the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the same MP so you can expect similar quality of images but you should always consider the age of the products into consideration. The younger FP1 should have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.