Panasonic FP2 vs. Samsung NX mini: A Thorough Comparison from an Expert’s Perspective

When stepping into the realm of compact digital cameras, it’s essential to understand not only the raw specs but how those translate into real-world use. Today, I’m diving into a detailed, hands-on comparison between two ultracompacts: the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP2 (FP2) announced in 2010, and the newer Samsung NX mini from 2014, an entry-level mirrorless. Both cater to users wanting portability but with very different philosophies underlying their design and features.

Having tested thousands of cameras over my career, I’ll unpack what these differences mean for portrait shooters, landscape lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, videographers, and everyone in between. Whether your budget is tight or you crave specific technical capabilities, this comparison aims to give you the clarity you need.

Getting to Know the Contenders: Size and Ergonomics at a Glance

First impressions matter, and in camera selection, the physical feel is often make-or-break. Panasonic’s FP2 is an ultracompact optimized for absolute portability. Measuring just 99 x 59 x 19 mm and weighing a featherlight 151 g, it fits effortlessly in any pocket or purse. Its sleek body boasts a minimalistic design - no electronic viewfinder, a fixed lens, and a fixed 2.7-inch screen. If stealth and simplicity appeal to you, the FP2 is compelling.

The Samsung NX mini, although still compact, is slightly bigger with 110 x 62 x 23 mm and 196 g weight. It opts for a rangefinder-style mirrorless body. Its design feels more substantial, hinting at slightly advanced capabilities. The tilting 3-inch touchscreen and interchangeable lens system offer versatility rare in this size class.

If you appreciate hands-on feel and button layout, you’ll notice Panasonic’s FP2 opts for a very straightforward approach - minimal controls, fixed lens, no viewfinder. Samsung goes for a more involved control scheme, albeit without the bulk of traditional mirrorless cameras.

For travel photography or urban strolls where discretion and extreme lightness are paramount, the FP2 wins hands down. But if you want to balance compactness with flexibility, the NX mini deserves serious thought.

A Close Look from Above: Control Layout and Usability

Navigating settings swiftly is crucial in fast-paced shooting conditions. When comparing the top views, Panasonic remains as minimalist as ever on the FP2 - simple shutter and zoom toggles, no dials for manual exposure control. The lack of manual modes (shutter priority, aperture priority, or full manual) restricts you to fully automatic or very limited customizations.

Samsung, conversely, offers several dedicated exposure modes, including shutter and aperture priority, plus manual mode - impressive for a camera of this size. The flash control options and exposure compensation dial add to creative latitude.

From my repeated tests, users wanting to grow technically with their camera will feel a ceiling with the FP2’s limited controls. The NX mini is better suited for enthusiasts who appreciate some manual overrides yet desire a compact, lightweight body.

Under the Hood: Sensor and Image Quality Insights

Arguably the most critical specification is sensor size and technology, which underpins image quality.

Panasonic FP2 houses a 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor (6.08 x 4.56 mm, approx. 27.7 mm²) with 14 MP resolution. While respectable for a 2010 model, this sensor size leads to inherent noise and limited dynamic range, especially in low light. Despite Panasonic’s Venus Engine IV processor, the FP2 lacks RAW support, limiting post-processing flexibility.

Samsung NX mini impresses with a much larger 1-inch BSI-CMOS sensor measuring 13.2 x 8.8 mm (~116 mm²) and 20.5 MP resolution. Backside illumination (BSI) and CMOS technology contribute to better noise handling and detail retention. The NX mini supports RAW capture, a boon for professionals and serious hobbyists wanting extensive editing options.

The sensor difference is palpable in practical shooting. FP2 produces decent images in bright conditions but struggles beyond ISO 400, where noise becomes intrusive. The Samsung’s sensor affords cleaner images at ISO up to 3200, with usable results even past ISO 6400 in some cases (boosted ISO).

This substantial sensor upgrade in the NX mini drastically expands creative potential across portrait, landscape, and night photography.

The Rear Interface: Screen Quality and User Interaction

Reviewing your shots and navigating menus is integral, and here the FP2 and NX mini diverge again.

Panasonic’s FP2 features a fixed 2.7-inch LCD with 230k dots resolution. This screen is adequate for daylit framing but presents challenges in bright environments or for fine detail evaluation. Lacking touchscreen or articulation means awkward handling when shooting at unusual angles.

The NX mini brings a 3-inch TFT LCD with 461k dots - almost double the resolution - and a 180-degree tilting mechanism ideal for selfies or low/high angle shots. Moreover, it is a touchscreen, making menu navigation and focus point adjustment intuitive.

Having spent days shooting street and travel scenes, I found the NX mini’s tilting touchscreen a joy. It enabled precise focus placement on the fly, something the fixed screen on the FP2 rarely allowed without trial and error.

Real-World Shooting Performance: Autofocus and Burst Rates

Speed and accuracy in focusing and continuous shooting are critical in many photography genres.

The Panasonic FP2 relies on contrast-detection autofocus with just 9 focus points and no face or eye detection. It supports single autofocus only, with no continuous AF or tracking. Burst shooting caps at 5 frames per second.

Samsung NX mini improves considerably - utilizing contrast detection with 21 AF points, center-weighted metering, and face detection, albeit no eye or animal AF. It supports touch-based AF point selection and continuous autofocus, although without advanced tracking like some newer cameras. Continuous shooting hits 6 frames per second.

For wildlife or sports photography, neither camera competes with professional-speed systems, but the NX mini offers smoother performance, particularly in tracking moving subjects or snapping bursts in quick succession.

Versatility Across Photography Styles: Strengths and Trade-offs

Let’s break down how these cameras fare in common photography disciplines.

Portrait Photography

FP2’s small sensor and standard lens zoom (35-140mm equivalent, f/3.5-5.9) deliver decent skin tones in bright conditions but struggle under low light or for creamier bokeh. No face or eye AF limits sharp targeting.

The NX mini shines here: larger sensor, superior color depth, and face detection autofocus help nail precise focus on eyes, while interchangeable lenses let you pick fast primes for shallow depth of field. It better preserves skin tone nuance and background separation essential for flattering portraits.

Landscape Photography

For landscapes, resolution and dynamic range matter. FP2’s 14 MP sensor can suffice for casual prints, but noise and limited dynamic range restrict editing latitude. Fixed lens is versatile but lacks super-wide focal lengths many landscape shooters favor.

NX mini’s 20 MP resolution combined with better sensor tech delivers richer detail, improved dynamic range, and RAW support. The Samsung lens mount lets you use wider lenses as well. Unfortunately, neither camera has weather sealing - a nod to their ultracompact and budget designs.

Wildlife Photography

Both cameras offer limited telephoto reach and autofocus speed. The FP2’s contrast-detect AF with 9 points and no continuous AF decreases usability. Burst mode at 5 fps is respectable but not specialized.

NX mini’s 6 fps burst, continuous AF, and more focus points give it a slight edge. However, absence of a powerful tele lens or eye tracking keeps it from serious wildlife use. Still, for casual bird shots or urban critters, it’s more capable.

Sports Photography

High-speed autofocus and frame rates are crucial. Both deliver modest burst rates (5 fps FP2, 6 fps NX mini), but neither uses phase detection AF, which hampers subject tracking and accuracy on fast-moving targets. Nikon and Canon DSLRs or advanced mirrorless cameras excel here.

NX mini is the marginally better choice due to manual controls and faster shutter speeds (up to 1/16000 sec) enabling shooting in bright light with wide apertures, plus exposure compensation.

Street Photography

For street shooters, discreet size, quiet operation, quick autofocus, and screen visibility matter. FP2’s tiny size and quiet operation without disruptive viewfinder slap is a boon. The fixed lens and simple layout mean less distraction and quick point-and-shoot.

NX mini, although slightly larger, offers the flexibility of choosing compact primes, a flip screen for shooting at stomach or waist height, and a responsive touchscreen. Without a viewfinder on either, relying on LCD in bright conditions can be limiting.

Macro Photography

The FP2 touts close focus capability down to 10 cm with optical image stabilization. Decent for casual macro snapshots but limited control for critical focusing.

NX mini lacks specified macro range, but its interchangeable lenses and touch AF allow for precision focusing. Optical IS isn’t built in but can come via lenses.

Night and Astro Photography

FP2’s small sensor and limited ISO range (max 6400) paired with early generation CMOS make night shooting noisy and dynamic range compressed.

NX mini’s BSI sensor, higher ISO ceiling (up to 12,800 native, 25,600 boosted), and manual exposure modes empower long- exposure and astro shots. RAW support unlocks post-shot adjustments critical in low-light.

Video Capabilities: What to Expect in Moving Images

FP2 records HD video at 1280 x 720 at 30 fps in Motion JPEG format - a dated codec delivering larger files and limited editing flexibility. No microphone or headphone ports restrict audio options.

NX mini advances to Full HD 1080p at 30 fps using MPEG-4/H.264 codec - modern and efficient - plus includes a microphone port for external audio. No headphone jack disappoints professionals monitoring sound but is rare at this level. The camera boasts in-camera stabilization only via lenses, lacking body IS.

For casual video blogging or family events, video quality favors NX mini. FP2’s video remains basic and best suited for incidental clips.

Building Quality, Weather Resistance, and Durability

Neither camera offers weather sealing, dustproofing, or shock resistance, fitting their categories and price points. Both handle normal daily abuse well, but keen outdoor photographers should consider ruggedized alternatives.

Connectivity, Storage, and Battery Considerations

Panasonic’s FP2 lacks wireless connectivity and uses standard SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. USB 2.0 transfer speed is standard but slow by today’s standards.

Samsung NX mini includes built-in Wi-Fi for image sharing and remote control via apps - a boon in today’s internet-centric world. It accepts microSD cards, useful in compact cameras. The battery life at 650 shots per charge - excellent for mirrorless standards - beats typical compact durations.

USB 2.0 is also present alongside mini HDMI for external viewing.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

The FP2 is fixed lens with a 35-140mm equivalent zoom - offering simplicity but no upgrade path.

Samsung’s NX mini brandishes the NX-M mount, which includes a small range of dedicated lenses including primes, zooms, and wide angles, allowing users to tailor the camera’s optical capabilities. This flexibility often makes or breaks the utility of a compact mirrorless.

Overall Performance Scores and Genre-Specific Ratings

To provide a concise visual summary, take a look at these performance charts comparing both cameras' overall scores and their relative strength across photography genres (portrait, landscape, sports, etc.).

Here, Samsung NX mini outperforms the FP2 clearly in image quality, versatility, and handling, while the FP2’s niche lies in exceptional portability and low barrier to entry.

Sample Gallery: Side-by-Side Image Quality and Output

Here are actual photos taken with both cameras in varied conditions - daylight portraits, shadow-rich landscapes, and indoor scenes.

Panasonic FP2 front Panasonic FP2 screen back Samsung NX mini front Samsung NX mini screen back

You’ll notice sharper detail and less noise in the Samsung images, with superior bokeh and better color fidelity. Panasonic images are serviceable, especially when lighting is optimal.

Who Should Choose Which: Recommendations Based on Use Case

Choose Panasonic FP2 if:

• You want the smallest, lightest possible camera for everyday carry.
• You prefer very straightforward point-and-shoot operation without fiddling with settings.
• Your photography is casual, mostly daylight travel, street shots, and quick snapshots.
• Budget is tight (around $80, very affordable).

Choose Samsung NX mini if:

• You desire better image quality, especially in low light.
• You want creative manual control and exposure flexibility.
• Interchangeable lenses and touchscreen versatility appeal to your style.
• You shoot both stills and videos regularly with moderate enthusiasm.
• Budget allows for a price around $530 with expandability potential.
• Wireless sharing capability is important.

Final Thoughts: The Expertise Takeaway

Comparing these two cameras is a bit like comparing an advanced point-and-shoot to an entry-level compact mirrorless. The Panasonic FP2 excels in absolute compactness and ease but is firmly aimed at casual users happy to trade control and image quality for portability.

Samsung’s NX mini represents a small but important step into more serious photography with a larger sensor, manual controls, interchangeable lenses, and modern connectivity. If you intend to explore creative photography seriously or want a compact yet flexible tool, it’s the better investment.

In my testing experience, you quickly recognize that sensor size and control ergonomics are king for diverse photography needs. While FP2 remains an introductory, pocketable camera, the NX mini is a capable bridge to the mirrorless world without bulk.

Dear readers, when possible, handle both bodies yourself. Feel the size, try out interface methods, and imagine your typical shooting scenarios. Don’t underestimate the joy of a camera that matches your photographic ambitions and hand size!

Thank you for reading this expert comparison. If you have any questions about detailed features or specific shooting styles, feel free to reach out - I’m happy to share further insights from my extensive camera testing journey.