Panasonic FP5 vs Panasonic SZ3

The following is a detailed overview of the Panasonic FP5 versus Panasonic SZ3, former is a Ultracompact while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both are sold by Panasonic. The image resolution of the FP5 (14MP) and the SZ3 (16MP) is relatively similar and both cameras have the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The FP5 was launched 24 months earlier than the SZ3 which makes them a generation away from each other. Both cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FP5 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic SZ3 being a Compact camera.

Before going right into a in-depth comparison, here is a concise overview of how the FP5 grades vs the SZ3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP5 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic FP5 Gallery & Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to travel with your camera regularly, you're going to have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FP5 has got outside measurements of 101mm x 59mm x 18mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") along with a weight of 141 grams (0.31 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ3 has dimensions of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FP5 versus Panasonic SZ3 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you have attached during that time. Below is a front view physical size comparison of the FP5 against the SZ3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the FP5 and SZ3 is 95 and 96 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to picture the contrast between sensor dimensions purely by reviewing a spec sheet. The pic below may offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the FP5 and SZ3.

As you can see, both cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different resolution. You can count on the Panasonic SZ3 to offer more detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop pictures more aggressively. The more aged FP5 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.