Panasonic FP5 vs Panasonic FS42

Below, we will be evaluating the Panasonic FP5 vs Panasonic FS42, both Ultracompact cameras and they are both offered by Panasonic. There is a crucial difference among the image resolutions of the FP5 (14MP) and FS42 (10MP) and the FP5 (1/2.3") and FS42 (1/2.5") enjoy totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The FP5 was introduced 21 months later than the FS42 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. The two cameras come with the identical body type (Ultracompact).

Before we go in to a detailed comparison, below is a concise summary of how the FP5 matches up vs the FS42 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic FP5 Gallery and Panasonic FS42 Gallery.

In case you're going to carry your camera regularly, you will want to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FP5 enjoys outer measurements of 101mm x 59mm x 18mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") with a weight of 141 grams (0.31 lbs) while the Panasonic FS42 has dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FP5 vs Panasonic FS42 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are employing during that time. Below is the front view sizing comparison of the FP5 versus the FS42.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the FP5 and FS42 is 95 and 95 respectively.

Often, it is hard to visualise the gap in sensor sizing purely by seeing specs. The graphic underneath will provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the FP5 and FS42.

As you can plainly see, both of those cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The FP5 with its bigger sensor will make getting shallow DOF less difficult and the Panasonic FP5 will show greater detail using its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will let you crop pictures somewhat more aggressively. The younger FP5 will have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.