Panasonic FP3 vs Samsung NX5

Here, we are contrasting the Panasonic FP3 versus Samsung NX5, former is a Ultracompact while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Panasonic and Samsung. The image resolution of the FP3 (14MP) and the NX5 (15MP) is very well matched but the FP3 (1/2.3") and NX5 (APS-C) boast totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The FP3 was released 4 months before the NX5 and they are of a similar age. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FP3 being a Ultracompact camera and the Samsung NX5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the FP3 grades against the NX5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP3 & Samsung NX5. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic FP3 Gallery & Samsung NX5 Gallery.

For those who are looking to travel with your camera, you have to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic FP3 comes with outer dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") with a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs) and the Samsung NX5 has specifications of 123mm x 87mm x 40mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 1.6") with a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FP3 versus Samsung NX5 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you choose at that time. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the FP3 against the NX5.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the FP3 and NX5 is 95 and 80 respectively.

Generally, it is very difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor dimensions merely by looking at specs. The picture below may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the FP3 and NX5.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The FP3 because of its tinier sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field more difficult and the Samsung NX5 will resolve more detail as a result of its extra 1MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop images way more aggressively.