Panasonic FP2 vs Pentax K-50

On this page, we are evaluating the Panasonic FP2 vs Pentax K-50, one is a Ultracompact and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the FP2 (14MP) and the K-50 (16MP) is very close but the FP2 (1/2.3") and K-50 (APS-C) boast different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The FP2 was unveiled 4 years before the K-50 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FP2 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax K-50 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple view of how the FP2 scores versus the K-50 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP2 and Pentax K-50. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic FP2 Gallery and Pentax K-50 Gallery.

If you're going to carry around your camera often, you should consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FP2 provides 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 Pentax K-50 has dimensions of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") along with a weight of 650 grams (1.43 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FP2 vs Pentax K-50 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Below is a front view dimensions comparison of the FP2 versus the K-50.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the FP2 and K-50 is 95 and 63 respectively.

Generally, it's tough to visualize the difference in sensor sizes simply by researching a spec sheet. The image underneath will help give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the FP2 and K-50.

As you can see, both of the cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The FP2 using its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF more challenging and the Pentax K-50 will provide you with greater detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop images more aggressively. The more aged FP2 will be behind in sensor innovation.