Panasonic FP5 vs Panasonic LX5

In this write-up, we will be comparing the Panasonic FP5 versus Panasonic LX5, former being a Ultracompact while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both are sold by Panasonic. There exists a large gap between the resolutions of the FP5 (14MP) and LX5 (10MP) and the FP5 (1/2.3") and LX5 (1/1.63") enjoy totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The FP5 was revealed 11 months earlier than the LX5 so they are both of a similar age. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FP5 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic LX5 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight into a in depth comparison, below is a quick view of how the FP5 grades versus the LX5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP5 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FP5 Gallery & Panasonic LX5 Gallery.

If you are going to lug around your camera regularly, you will have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FP5 has outside measurements of 101mm x 59mm x 18mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") having a weight of 141 grams (0.31 lbs) whilst the Panasonic LX5 has dimensions of 110mm x 65mm x 43mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.7") with a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic FP5 versus Panasonic LX5 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have chosen at that time. Here is the front view size comparison of the FP5 versus the LX5.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FP5 and LX5 is 95 and 88 respectively.

More often than not, it's difficult to see the gap between sensor measurements simply by checking specs. The graphic here may give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the FP5 and LX5.

All in all, each of these cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The FP5 using its tinier sensor will make achieving bokeh harder and the Panasonic FP5 will give you extra detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop shots far more aggressively. The older FP5 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.