Panasonic FP5 vs Sony A290

Lets look more closely at the Panasonic FP5 vs Sony A290, former being a Ultracompact while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the FP5 (14MP) and the A290 (14MP) is very well matched but the FP5 (1/2.3") and A290 (APS-C) boast different sensor measurements.

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The FP5 was unveiled 7 months later than the A290 and they are both of a similar age. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FP5 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony A290 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the FP5 grades vs the A290 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP5 & Sony Alpha DSLR-A290. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FP5 Gallery & Sony A290 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry your camera, you will want to take into account its weight and proportions. 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) while the Sony A290 has measurements of 128mm x 97mm x 86mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.4") with a weight of 549 grams (1.21 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FP5 vs Sony A290 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are using at that moment. Underneath is a front view sizing comparison of the FP5 and the A290.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the FP5 and A290 is 95 and 66 respectively.

Generally, it is hard to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing just by checking technical specs. The photograph here may give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the FP5 and A290.

As you have seen, each of these cameras feature the identical resolution but different sensor sizing. The FP5 provides the tinier sensor which will make getting shallower DOF tougher. The fresher FP5 should have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.