Panasonic FP3 vs Sony A500

Following is a detailed analysis of the Panasonic FP3 versus Sony A500, former is a Ultracompact while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the FP3 (14MP) and the A500 (12MP) is relatively well matched but the FP3 (1/2.3") and A500 (APS-C) use different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The FP3 was brought out 5 months after the A500 which means that they are of a similar age. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FP3 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony A500 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go in to a detailed comparison, below is a short overview of how the FP3 matches up against the A500 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP3 & Sony Alpha DSLR-A500. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic FP3 Gallery & Sony A500 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry around your camera often, you will have to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic FP3 features outside dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") accompanied by a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs) and the Sony A500 has specifications of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") and a weight of 630 grams (1.39 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FP3 versus Sony A500 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have at that time. The following is the front view dimension comparison of the FP3 against the A500.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the FP3 and A500 is 95 and 63 respectively.

Generally, it can be tough to imagine the difference between sensor sizes only by checking a spec sheet. The picture underneath may give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the FP3 and A500.

Clearly, both of those cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The FP3 due to its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallow depth of field tougher and the Panasonic FP3 will give you greater detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots a little more aggressively.