Panasonic FP5 vs Panasonic SZ10

Here, we will be looking at the Panasonic FP5 and Panasonic SZ10, one is a Ultracompact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are offered by Panasonic. The resolution of the FP5 (14MP) and the SZ10 (16MP) is pretty close and both cameras provide the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The FP5 was manufactured 5 years prior to the SZ10 which is a fairly serious gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FP5 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic SZ10 being a Compact camera.

Before delving into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick overview of how the FP5 grades against the SZ10 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ10. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic FP5 Gallery and Panasonic SZ10 Gallery.

In case you're intending to travel with your camera often, you should factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FP5 has got physical measurements of 101mm x 59mm x 18mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") accompanied by a weight of 141 grams (0.31 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ10 has proportions of 99mm x 60mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.2") and a weight of 177 grams (0.39 lbs).

See the Panasonic FP5 and Panasonic SZ10 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you select during that time. The following is a front view proportions comparison of the FP5 and the SZ10.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FP5 and SZ10 is 95 and 93 respectively.

Normally, it can be hard to visualise the difference in sensor dimensions only by researching a spec sheet. The pic underneath will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the FP5 and SZ10.

As you can see, each of the cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit not the same MP. You should expect the Panasonic SZ10 to provide you with extra detail due to its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop photographs way more aggressively. The more aged FP5 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.