Panasonic FP5 vs Pentax P70

Following is a thorough review of the Panasonic FP5 and Pentax P70, both Ultracompact cameras by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the FP5 (14MP) and the P70 (12MP) is pretty close and they use the exact same sensor size (1/2.3").

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The FP5 was announced 23 months after the P70 which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. The two cameras come with the identical body type (Ultracompact).

Before delving straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the FP5 grades versus the P70 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP5 & Pentax Optio P70. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic FP5 Gallery & Pentax P70 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you will want to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FP5 enjoys outside dimensions of 101mm x 59mm x 18mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") with a weight of 141 grams (0.31 lbs) whilst the Pentax P70 has proportions of 97mm x 54mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.1" x 0.9") and a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FP5 and Pentax P70 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Underneath is the front view over all size comparison of the FP5 versus the P70.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the FP5 and P70 is 95 and 95 respectively.

Generally, it can be tough to visualise the difference in sensor sizes simply by looking through technical specs. The image here will offer you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the FP5 and P70.

As you can tell, both cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements albeit not the same MP. You can expect the Panasonic FP5 to result in more detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The younger FP5 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.