Panasonic FP2 vs Panasonic ZS40

On this page, we are evaluating the Panasonic FP2 vs Panasonic ZS40, former is a Ultracompact while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both created by Panasonic. There exists a considerable gap between the image resolutions of the FP2 (14MP) and ZS40 (18MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The FP2 was unveiled 5 years prior to the ZS40 which is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FP2 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic ZS40 being a Compact camera.

Before diving into a in-depth comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the FP2 scores vs the ZS40 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP2 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FP2 Gallery & Panasonic ZS40 Gallery.

If you are planning to travel with your camera often, you'll have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FP2 has external measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") accompanied by a weight of 151 grams (0.33 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS40 has dimensions of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") having a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FP2 vs Panasonic ZS40 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you use at that time. The following is a front view measurement comparison of the FP2 compared to the ZS40.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FP2 and ZS40 is 95 and 90 respectively.

Typically, it's difficult to visualize the contrast between sensor dimensions only by reading through specifications. The image below will provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the FP2 and ZS40.

To sum up, both of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions but different MP. You can expect to see the Panasonic ZS40 to resolve greater detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics a bit more aggressively. The more aged FP2 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.