Panasonic FP2 vs Pentax X-5

Following is a extended review of the Panasonic FP2 and Pentax X-5, one is a Ultracompact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the FP2 (14MP) and the X-5 (16MP) is very comparable and they use the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The FP2 was revealed 3 years earlier than the X-5 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FP2 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax X-5 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before delving straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the FP2 scores versus the X-5 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP2 and Pentax X-5. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FP2 Gallery and Pentax X-5 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry around your camera, you will want to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic FP2 features external dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") with a weight of 151 grams (0.33 lbs) whilst the Pentax X-5 has specifications of 119mm x 86mm x 107mm (4.7" x 3.4" x 4.2") accompanied by a weight of 595 grams (1.31 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FP2 and Pentax X-5 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you use at that moment. Underneath is the front view physical size comparison of the FP2 vs the X-5.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FP2 and X-5 is 95 and 65 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very hard to see the difference in sensor sizes only by going through technical specs. The picture underneath may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the FP2 and X-5.

As you can tell, each of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same resolution. You should expect to see the Pentax X-5 to show greater detail because of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos far more aggressively. The more aged FP2 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.