Panasonic FP7 vs Sony a5100

In this write-up, we are evaluating the Panasonic FP7 and Sony a5100, one is a Ultracompact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. There is a significant difference between the image resolutions of the FP7 (16MP) and a5100 (24MP) and the FP7 (1/2.3") and a5100 (APS-C) enjoy different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The FP7 was introduced 4 years earlier than the a5100 which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FP7 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony a5100 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the FP7 scores versus the a5100 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP7 and Sony Alpha a5100. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic FP7 Gallery and Sony a5100 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to travel with your camera often, you will have to consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic FP7 comes with external measurements of 101mm x 59mm x 18mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") with a weight of 147 grams (0.32 lbs) and the Sony a5100 has sizing of 110mm x 63mm x 36mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.4") with a weight of 283 grams (0.62 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic FP7 and Sony a5100 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you use during that time. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the FP7 and the a5100.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the FP7 and a5100 is 95 and 89 respectively.

Generally, it is hard to picture the contrast between sensor dimensions only by going over technical specs. The pic below might give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the FP7 and a5100.

As you have seen, the two cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The FP7 using its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF tougher and the Sony a5100 will offer greater detail using its extra 8MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop photos a little more aggressively. The more aged FP7 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor tech.