Panasonic FP3 vs Panasonic ZS45

On this page, we will be looking at the Panasonic FP3 vs Panasonic ZS45, one is a Ultracompact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both sold by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the FP3 (14MP) and the ZS45 (16MP) is relatively comparable and both cameras have the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The FP3 was revealed 6 years earlier than the ZS45 which is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FP3 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic ZS45 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the FP3 grades against the ZS45 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FP3 Gallery and Panasonic ZS45 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry around your camera often, you'll have to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic FP3 has got outer measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") having a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS45 has sizing of 108mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 249 grams (0.55 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FP3 vs Panasonic ZS45 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are employing during that time. Below is a front view sizing comparison of the FP3 vs the ZS45.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FP3 and ZS45 is 95 and 91 respectively.

Quite often, it is very tough to envision the difference in sensor sizes purely by seeing technical specs. The picture below may give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the FP3 and ZS45.

As you have seen, both of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same MP. You should count on the Panasonic ZS45 to provide extra detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop photographs more aggressively. The more aged FP3 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.