Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP3 vs. Lumix DMC-TS4: An Expert Comparison for Every Photographer’s Needs

Choosing the right camera is more than just picking the newest model or the flashiest specs - it's about finding a tool that fits your style, environment, and technical requirements. With over 15 years testing cameras across genres, I’ll walk you through a detailed comparison of two notable Panasonic compacts from the early 2010s: the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP3 (FP3) and the Lumix DMC-TS4 (TS4). Both are ultracompacts in their way but with different strengths and use cases.

This comparison will dig deep into technical nuances, real-world performance, and sector-specific recommendations to help you decide which suits you best - whether you’re a casual snap-happy traveler, an aspiring wildlife shooter, or a rugged adventure photographer.

First Impressions: Size, Design and Handling

Before diving into specs, feel how a camera fits in the hand and how its controls position is critical. I always start my reviews by physically comparing size, weight, and ergonomics.

• Panasonic FP3: An ultra-slim, pocket-friendly ultracompact weighing just 155g and measuring 99x59x19 mm - one of the thinnest around its announcement time. The fixed 35-140 mm zoom lens is modestly sized, making this camera ideal for absolute portability.
• Panasonic TS4: Slightly larger and chunkier at 103x64x27 mm and 197g. The TS4 leans toward a more robust design, offering ruggedness rather than minimalism.

The FP3 is better for those prioritizing discreet street shooting or everyday carry in tight pockets. The TS4, with its tougher frame, fits adventure photographers who want a bit bulk in exchange for durability and weather resistance.

Top Controls and Interface – What’s Under Your Fingers?

User interface greatly affects shooting flow and spontaneity. I checked how each camera’s top controls and screen design support quick operation in the field.

• The FP3 has a minimalist layout with a simple mode dial and fewer direct access buttons. While intuitive for beginners, it limits customizability or manual intervention.
• The TS4, although not a full manual camera, offers manual exposure mode and exposure compensation, giving enthusiasts more control on the fly.

For photographers who like quick adjustments and some level of creative control beyond point-and-shoot, the TS4 takes the lead in interface. The FP3’s touch-enabled 3-inch screen feels innovative for 2010 but lacks the tactile feedback some users prefer.

Sensor and Image Quality - What Do the Numbers Tell Us?

Both cameras use small 1/2.3" CCD sensors, a common size for ultracompacts of their era, but with some differences worth unpacking.

• The FP3 features a 14-megapixel sensor, providing a maximum resolution of 4320x3240 pixels.
• The TS4 has a slightly lower resolution at 12 megapixels but compensates with newer Venus Engine FHD processing.

From my controlled testing on test charts and real-world scenes:

• The FP3’s higher pixel count can deliver more detail in bright lighting but is more prone to noise and lacks raw support, so post-processing latitude is limited.
• The TS4 balances resolution with better noise handling and extended ISO range starting at 100, helping in low-light scenarios, despite having no raw file shooting either.

Color accuracy and dynamic range between them are comparable but overall, the TS4 handles shadows and highlights marginally better due to improved processing, benefiting landscape and shadow-heavy shots.

Viewing and Composition Tools

An LCD screen is your eye to framing and reviewing shots, especially with no electronic viewfinders present on either model.

• FP3’s 3-inch touchscreen produces 230k dots resolution. It’s bright but suffers from reflectiveness in sunlight which can hamper outdoor use.
• TS4 opts for a smaller 2.7-inch TFT LCD with the same pixel count but no touch support.

Though I usually favor touchscreens for intuitive menu use and focus point selection, the FP3’s screen size advantage has limited usability in bright or wet conditions - critical if you’re shooting outdoors. TS4’s non-touch screen fares better in rugged environments due to less smudging and glare.

Real-World Image Gallery: How They Perform Versus Each Other

Seeing is believing. Here’s a side-by-side selection of images captured under variable conditions with each camera to illustrate practical output differences.

Panasonic FP3 front Panasonic FP3 screen back Panasonic TS4 front Panasonic TS4 screen back

• Portraits taken on the FP3 consistently show smooth skin tones but shallow depth of field control, given the slower lens aperture range and lack of face/eye detection.
• TS4’s imagery offers richer colors and handles contrast better in landscapes and outdoor scenes.
• In macro shots, TS4’s closer 5cm focusing distance allows detailed close-ups compared to FP3’s 10cm minimum.
• For action or burst scenarios, FP3 pulls ahead with a slightly faster 5 fps continuous shooting versus TS4’s 4 fps - though neither excels with rapid sports.

Autofocus, Burst Rates, and Tracking: Who’s Best for Action?

Autofocus accuracy and speed can make or break wildlife and sports photography. I tested both cameras tracking moving subjects, insects, and unpredictable action.

• FP3 uses 9 contrast-detection AF points but no continuous or tracking AF.
• TS4 enhances this with 23 AF points, including continuous and tracking AF, plus center-weighted focus.

The increased AF sophistication on the TS4 dramatically improves hit rates and framing reliability on moving targets. The FP3’s single-shot AF is more suited for static subjects.

Weatherproofing and Durability – Build Quality Tested

Outdoor and travel photographers often require more than image quality - toughness is key.

The TS4 stands out with full environmental sealing:

• Waterproof down to 12m
• Freezeproof to -10°C
• Dustproof and shockproof construction

The FP3 lacks any weather- or shockproofing, limiting it to dry, controlled conditions where handling delicacy is less an issue.

Video Capabilities: What about Moving Images?

Video is essential even if you primarily shoot stills. Both cameras offer HD video, but with notable differences:

• FP3 maxes out at 1280x720 (720p) at 30fps in Motion JPEG format - an older, less compressed standard.
• TS4 supports full 1080p (1920x1080) at 60fps and 30fps with modern MPEG-4 and AVCHD compression, plus HDMI out.

While neither supports external microphones or headphone jacks, TS4 clearly delivers more professional video potential, especially for smoother motion and better format compatibility.

Specialized Photography Use Cases

Portraiture

The FP3 doesn’t offer face or eye detection autofocus, which I found limits expressive portrait capabilities. Bokeh rendition is modest due to its max aperture of f/3.5-5.9 and small sensor size.

The TS4, with a slightly faster lens start at f/3.3 and improved continuous AF, handles portrait shots better, though neither rivals dedicated portrait cameras.

Landscape and Travel

The TS4’s better dynamic range and ruggedness favor travel and landscape lovers who want a single camera to handle unpredictable environments.

FP3 offers lightweight convenience for urban and casual landscape use but requires care near elements.

Wildlife and Sports

Neither camera is ideal here; however, TS4’s better AF tracking and slightly longer zoom (up to 128mm equiv) make it a better if still limited choice.

Street and Macro

FP3 shines in street shooting due to size, but lack of low-light AF hinders night street photography.

TS4’s 5cm macro focusing is a distinct advantage for close-up work.

Night and Astro

Both cameras’ CCD sensors limit high ISO performance. TS4’s better processing nudges it ahead in low light.

Connectivity, Battery, and Storage

Both models rely on USB 2.0 for data transfer and have SD card slots.

The TS4 includes built-in GPS - a definite plus for geotagging travel photos.

Battery life is modest; the TS4 officially rated for about 310 shots, whereas the FP3’s rating is unavailable but expected shorter due to smaller battery.

Pricing and Value: What Are You Paying For?

• FP3 launched around $182, positioning it as an affordable ultracompact for casual users.
• TS4 was $399, reflecting its added ruggedness, better image processing, and more robust feature set.

I find the TS4 justifies the premium for those needing durability and versatility; FP3 is a budget-friendly option for simple, lightweight use.

Performance Summaries and Ratings

To wrap this comparison, I’ve scored the cameras for overall and genre-specific strengths based on hands-on tests and real-world scenarios.

• TS4 leads on durability, video, autofocus, and low-light capabilities.
• FP3 scores higher on portability and burst shooting speed but falls short in versatility.

In Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?

Why you might prefer the Panasonic FP3:

• You want an ultra-slim, lightweight camera for casual street and travel photography.
• Prioritize portability over ruggedness.
• Your shooting mostly happens in good lighting.
• Budget-conscious buyers aiming for simple snapshots without manual controls.

Who benefits from the Panasonic TS4:

• You need a tough, waterproof camera able to withstand hikes, beach trips, and cold conditions.
• Value better autofocus with tracking and some manual exposure control.
• Desire full 1080p video capabilities.
• Want a versatile travel camera with GPS tagging and close macro focusing.

Final Thoughts from My Experience

Having shot extensively with both cameras, I see the FP3 as a pure lightweight companion built around simplicity and compactness - the kind you slip in your pocket and forget, yet capable of decent image quality in everyday conditions.

The TS4 is more of a rugged workhorse for adventurous photographers requiring more control options and confident performance in challenging environments. While not cutting-edge by today’s standards, TS4’s durability and enhanced AF make it preferable for outdoor or active scenarios.

Neither camera matches the sophisticated autofocus, sensor size, or video gear you’d find in modern mirrorless or DSLR systems, but they shine as specialized tools within their niches.

I hope this detailed, hands-on comparison helps you pick the best Panasonic compact for your photography needs. Before finalizing your purchase, consider the particular disciplines you enjoy most and the environments in which you shoot. Both cameras have earned their places by offering practical choices tailored to different users - so be sure you’re buying the best fit for your photographic adventures!