Panasonic FP3 vs Pentax S1

On this page, we are evaluating the Panasonic FP3 and Pentax S1, one is a Ultracompact and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the FP3 (14MP) and the S1 (14MP) is fairly close and both cameras boast the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The FP3 was announced 14 months earlier than the S1 making them a generation away from one another. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FP3 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax S1 being a Compact camera.

Before diving into a in-depth comparison, here is a concise summation of how the FP3 grades versus the S1 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP3 and Pentax Optio S1. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic FP3 Gallery and Pentax S1 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to travel with your camera frequently, you need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FP3 features exterior measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") along with a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs) whilst the Pentax S1 has dimensions of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic FP3 and Pentax S1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are working with at the time. Below is a front view sizing comparison of the FP3 and the S1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FP3 and S1 is 95 and 93 respectively.

Typically, it is very hard to see the difference in sensor dimensions merely by researching a spec sheet. The image underneath might offer you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the FP3 and S1.

Clearly, both cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the same resolution so you should expect comparable quality of files but you would want to take the production date of the cameras into account. The more aged FP3 will be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.