Panasonic FP2 vs Sony NEX-5N

Lets take a deeper look at the Panasonic FP2 vs Sony NEX-5N, one being a Ultracompact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the FP2 (14MP) and the NEX-5N (16MP) is fairly comparable but the FP2 (1/2.3") and NEX-5N (APS-C) have different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The FP2 was revealed 21 months prior to the NEX-5N making them a generation apart from each other. Both the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FP2 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony NEX-5N being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the FP2 matches up vs the NEX-5N in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP2 and Sony Alpha NEX-5N. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic FP2 Gallery and Sony NEX-5N Gallery.

If you're intending to carry your camera often, you have to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FP2 features exterior measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") having a weight of 151 grams (0.33 lbs) and the Sony NEX-5N has proportions of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic FP2 vs Sony NEX-5N in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Below is a front view dimensions comparison of the FP2 and the NEX-5N.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the FP2 and NEX-5N is 95 and 89 respectively.

Often, it's difficult to visualize the difference in sensor sizing merely by going through technical specs. The visual underneath will offer you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the FP2 and NEX-5N.

As you have seen, the two cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The FP2 having a smaller sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field trickier and the Sony NEX-5N will provide extra detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will help you crop photos more aggressively. The older FP2 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.