Panasonic FP5 vs Sony A57

In this article, we are evaluating the Panasonic FP5 versus Sony A57, former being a Ultracompact while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the FP5 (14MP) and the A57 (16MP) is very close but the FP5 (1/2.3") and A57 (APS-C) feature totally different sensor sizes.

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The FP5 was announced 20 months earlier than the A57 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FP5 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony A57 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving through a thorough comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the FP5 grades against the A57 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP5 & Sony SLT-A57. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic FP5 Gallery & Sony A57 Gallery.

If you're planning to lug around your camera regularly, you will need to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FP5 features physical dimensions of 101mm x 59mm x 18mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") with a weight of 141 grams (0.31 lbs) while the Sony A57 has measurements of 132mm x 98mm x 81mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.2") accompanied by a weight of 618 grams (1.36 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FP5 versus Sony A57 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are working with at that time. The following is the front view dimension comparison of the FP5 and the A57.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the FP5 and A57 is 95 and 64 respectively.

Often, its hard to visualise the contrast in sensor measurements simply by researching technical specs. The graphic underneath will provide you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the FP5 and A57.

As you can tell, both the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The FP5 using its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower DOF trickier and the Sony A57 will render more detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop images a little more aggressively. The older FP5 will be behind with regard to sensor technology.