Panasonic FP2 vs Pentax S1

Below is a comprehensive analysis of the Panasonic FP2 versus Pentax S1, one being a Ultracompact and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the FP2 (14MP) and the S1 (14MP) is fairly similar and they possess the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The FP2 was manufactured 14 months earlier than the S1 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FP2 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax S1 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight into a full comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the FP2 grades against the S1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP2 and Pentax Optio S1. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic FP2 Gallery and Pentax S1 Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera regularly, you'll have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FP2 features outside measurements 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 S1 has measurements of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FP2 versus Pentax S1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are using at that time. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the FP2 compared to the S1.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the FP2 and S1 is 95 and 93 respectively.

In many cases, it is very hard to picture the difference between sensor measurements just by reviewing specifications. The graphic below will help give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the FP2 and S1.

To sum up, both cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the same exact megapixels and you should expect similar quality of images however you will need to take the production date of the products into consideration. The older FP2 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor technology.