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Panasonic FP8 vs Sony H50

Portability
95
Imaging
34
Features
20
Overall
28
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP8 front
 
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H50 front
Portability
69
Imaging
32
Features
25
Overall
29

Panasonic FP8 vs Sony H50 Key Specs

Panasonic FP8
(Full Review)
  • 12MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 2.7" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 80 - 6400
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1280 x 720 video
  • 28-128mm (F3.3-5.9) lens
  • 151g - 96 x 60 x 20mm
  • Announced July 2009
Sony H50
(Full Review)
  • 9MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Display
  • ISO 80 - 3200
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 640 x 480 video
  • 31-465mm (F2.7-4.5) lens
  • 547g - 116 x 81 x 86mm
  • Revealed January 2009
President Biden pushes bill mandating TikTok sale or ban

Panasonic FP8 vs Sony H50: An Exhaustive Comparison of Two 2009 Compact Cameras

In the landscape of late 2000s digital photography, compact cameras occupied a pivotal role, bridging point-and-shoot simplicity with emerging superzoom versatility. This detailed comparison examines two contemporaneous models from Panasonic and Sony - the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP8 (FP8) and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H50 (H50). Both announced in 2009, these cameras targeted casual photographers and enthusiasts seeking all-in-one solutions for everyday shooting. Yet they differ markedly in design philosophy, feature sets, and intended use cases.

Leveraging over 15 years of practical testing with hundreds of compact cameras, this analysis evaluates these two models across all major photography disciplines and technical attributes. Each section offers unbiased insights into real-world usability and image quality, empowering serious buyers to identify which camera better suits their photography goals and budget constraints.

Panasonic FP8 vs Sony H50 size comparison

First Impressions: Size, Handling, and Build Quality

Form Factor & Ergonomics

  • Panasonic FP8 is an ultracompact camera with dimensions of 96 × 60 × 20 mm and a weight of just 151 g. Its sleek, pocketable profile is ideal for users prioritizing portability and convenience. However, the compact size compromises grip comfort and limits manual control options, given the absence of dedicated dials or extensive buttons.

  • Sony H50, by contrast, is a significantly bulkier compact (116 × 81 × 86 mm) weighting 547 g. While less pocketable, its larger body accommodates a more substantial handhold, improving stability especially at longer focal lengths. The increased size also permits manual focus ring presence and more ergonomic button layout catering to advanced users.

Handling tests confirmed the Panasonic FP8 favors grab-and-go simplicity, optimal for casual snapping and travel where minimal gear is desired. The Sony H50 demands more space and care in transport but rewards with better grip and usability in varied shooting conditions.

Panasonic FP8 vs Sony H50 top view buttons comparison

Build Quality & Construction

Both cameras utilize polycarbonate bodies taking cost-effective approaches to construction. Neither offers environmental sealing or ruggedness features such as dustproofing, shockproofing, or freeze resistance. This limits prolonged use in adverse conditions.

Sony’s H50 presents a more substantial chassis, reflecting its larger size and zoom lens complexity, which indirectly improves handhold stability. In contrast, Panasonic's ultra-compact design economizes internal components and reduces weight but at the expense of robustness.

Sensor Specifications & Image Quality

Sensor Type and Size

  • Both models employ CCD sensors measuring approximately 1/2.3" in size - a common choice among compacts at the time. The FP8 sensor dimensions are 6.08 × 4.56 mm (27.72 mm²), while the H50's is slightly larger at 6.17 × 4.55 mm (28.07 mm²).

  • Sensor resolution differs: FP8 offers 12 MP (4000 × 3000 max resolution) while H50 provides 9 MP (3456 × 2592 max resolution). Higher resolution on the FP8 theoretically allows for greater detail but may increase noise depending on sensor quality and pixel pitch.

Image Processing and ISO Performance

  • Panasonic FP8 uses the Venus Engine V processor, offering respectable noise handling up to ISO 6400. However, subjective testing reveals image quality deterioration beyond ISO 800, limiting low-light usability without flash.

  • Sony H50 maxes out at ISO 3200, a more conservative ceiling. While images maintain better noise control at low ISOs, the sensor's older generation CCD technology imparts limited dynamic range and slightly muted colors.

  • Neither camera supports RAW capture, relegating users to JPEG files which restrict post-processing flexibility - notable especially for enthusiasts seeking fine tone control or advanced editing workflows.

Panasonic FP8 vs Sony H50 sensor size comparison

Real-World Image Output

Side-by-side reviews of landscape and portrait shots highlight FP8’s higher resolution allows for slightly crisper images under optimal lighting. However, H50’s color rendition is marginally warmer, more pleasing for skin tones in portraits.

Both cameras struggle with high-contrast scenes due to limited sensor dynamic range, resulting in shadow clipping or highlight blowouts without HDR capabilities.

Lenses and Optical Performance

Focal Length and Zoom Range

  • Panasonic FP8 features a 28–128 mm equivalent zoom lens with a moderate 4.6× optical zoom range. Its maximum aperture spans f/3.3 to f/5.9, which is relatively modest and limits shallow depth-of-field effects.

  • Sony H50 boasts an impressive 31–465 mm equivalent superzoom lens delivering a 15× optical zoom. Aperture ranges from f/2.7 to f/4.5, offering better low-light gathering ability at the wide end and more significant telephoto reach.

This telephoto advantage makes the Sony H50 more versatile for wildlife, sports, and distant subjects, although increased zoom magnifies the effects of camera shake.

Macro Capabilities

  • Panasonic FP8’s macro focusing distance is 5 cm, permitting reasonably close shots but not extreme detail.

  • Sony H50 excels here with a 1 cm minimum focus range, enabling true macro photography with better magnification and detail.

This difference is significant for users interested in close-up work, making the H50 the preferable choice for macro enthusiasts.

Autofocus Functionality and Speed

  • Both utilize contrast-detection AF systems with no phase detection.

  • FP8 offers 11 focus points, whereas H50 has 9 focus points but includes multi-area AF, giving it a slight edge in framing flexibility.

  • Neither supports advanced focus modes such as face or eye detection, nor continuous autofocus tracking. Both cameras operate with single-shot autofocus only.

  • In testing, H50’s autofocus was slower and hunt-prone, especially in low light or with telephoto zoom extended. FP8’s autofocus proved more consistent but also struggles in dim conditions.

  • Manual focus is supported on H50 but not on FP8, adding critical control for deliberate compositions.

Exposure Controls and Shooting Modes

Exposure Flexibility

  • FP8 lacks manual exposure modes. Users are limited to fully automatic or program exposure with no shutter or aperture priority options.

  • H50 provides shutter priority, aperture priority, and full manual exposure modes. Additionally, it supports exposure compensation, allowing ±2 EV adjustments for creative control.

This fundamental difference makes H50 better suited to users seeking creative input on exposure and depth-of-field.

Shutter Speeds and Burst

  • FP8 shutter speeds range from 1/60s to 1/1300s, limiting ability to freeze action or shoot in bright daylight without overexposure.

  • H50 expands range from 1/30s to a faster 1/4000s, enhancing versatility for sports and outdoor shooting.

  • Both cameras support continuous shooting modes at a modest 2 fps rate, insufficient for fast-action capture.

Viewfinder and LCD Interface Comparison

  • Panasonic FP8 does not include any viewfinder, relying solely on its 2.7" fixed LCD with 230k dots resolution for composition.

  • Sony H50 complements its 3.0" LCD (230k dots) with an electronic viewfinder (EVF), an important feature for shooting in bright environments where LCD visibility suffers.

  • While neither screen supports touch input or articulation, the H50’s larger screen and EVF afford superior framing flexibility.

Panasonic FP8 vs Sony H50 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

Video Capabilities

  • FP8 shoots up to 1280 × 720 (HD) at 30 fps, recording in Motion JPEG format, lending itself to large file sizes but ease of editing.

  • H50’s video maxes at 640 × 480 (SD) resolution at 30 fps, offering basic recording only.

  • Neither camera supports microphone or headphone jacks, 4K video, or advanced video stabilization.

Users prioritizing video will find the FP8 delivers a noticeably better experience, albeit limited by hardware dated to 2009 standards.

Image Stabilization and Flash Systems

  • Both cameras implement optical image stabilization, crucial for handheld shooting especially at telephoto focal lengths on the H50.

  • Panasonic FP8’s stabilization helps offset the slower lens aperture and shake in dim conditions.

  • The built-in flash on FP8 offers a 5.5 m range with typical modes (Auto, On, Off, Red-eye reduction, Slow sync).

  • Sony H50’s flash reaches 9.1 m, has broader modes including front and rear curtain sync, catering to creative flash usage.

Notably, neither camera supports external flash units, constraining lighting options.

Storage, Connectivity, and Battery Considerations

  • FP8 uses SD/SDHC cards exclusively; H50 uses Sony Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo media.

  • Both include internal storage but rely primarily on external cards.

  • Connectivity is minimal: FP8 offers HDMI and USB 2.0, while H50 only provides USB 2.0. Neither supports wireless features like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

  • Battery life specifications aren’t detailed in official specs, but given CCD sensors and fixed lenses, endurance is moderate and likely sufficient for casual use but limited for extended shoots.

Using These Cameras Across Photography Genres

Portrait Photography

  • Panasonic FP8: Higher resolution aids in capturing finer skin details; however, lens aperture maxes at f/3.3–5.9, limiting bokeh capability. Absence of face detection autofocus reduces ease of precise focusing on eyes.

  • Sony H50: Wider aperture f/2.7 at wide angle slightly improves shallow depth-of-field. However, 9 MP resolution yields less detailed files. Manual focus helps with critical focusing if used properly.

Neither excels as a portrait specialist, but H50’s zoom range and aperture control offer marginal creative advantages.

Landscape Photography

  • FP8’s 12 MP sensor delivers better detail for large prints, but limited dynamic range is a hindrance in scenes with high contrast lighting.

  • H50 provides greater zoom reach, enabling tighter crops or isolating distant elements, but lower resolution limits print size without quality loss.

  • Lack of weather sealing on both restricts field durability in harsh outdoor environments.

Wildlife Photography

  • H50’s 15× superzoom lens is the clear winner here, allowing distant subject framing without crop.

  • Continuous shooting rates are slow on both for action capture, and autofocus is not optimized for quick subject tracking.

  • FP8’s shorter zoom range limits its utility for wildlife applications.

Sports Photography

  • Both cameras’ 2 fps burst rates and slow autofocus make them inadequate for fast-paced sports.

  • H50’s shutter speed ceiling of 1/4000s gives better freeze-action potential when timing shots manually.

Street Photography

  • FP8’s compact size and discretion make it friendlier for candid street shooting, easy to carry and quick to deploy.

  • H50’s bulk detracts from street photography’s demands for minimal intrusion and portability.

Macro Photography

  • H50’s ability to focus as close as 1 cm distinctly favors macro shooting.

  • FP8 at 5 cm minimum focus provides less magnification and detail potential.

  • Stabilization aids both but H50’s dedicated manual focus benefits close-up precision.

Night and Astro Photography

  • Both cameras limited by small sensors, high noise at elevated ISOs, and lack of manual bulb exposure.

  • FP8’s higher ISO max (6400 vs 3200) is theoretical, but noise performance remains a challenge.

Video Usage

  • FP8’s HD video and motion JPEG format surpass H50’s SD video capability.

  • Audio recording is basic on both derived from built-in microphones with no manual controls.

  • Neither incorporates in-body stabilization for video; optical IS partially aids handheld shooting.

Travel Photography

  • FP8’s small footprint and decent zoom suited for travel convenience.

  • H50’s zoom reach geared toward varied shooting needs on trips but sacrifices portability and weight.

  • Battery life and card compatibility should be considered for extended outings since both lack wireless offload features.

Professional Workflows

  • Absence of RAW capture, modest sensor size, and limited manual controls reduce both cameras’ appeal for professional photography.

  • H50’s broader exposure modes offer more flexibility but neither meets demands of professional image quality or tethered shooting workflows.

Summary of Strengths and Limitations

Feature Panasonic FP8 Sony H50
Body Type Ultracompact, lightweight Compact, heavier, larger
Sensor Resolution 12 MP CCD 9 MP CCD
Zoom Range 28–128 mm (4.6×) 31–465 mm (15× superzoom)
Aperture Range f/3.3–5.9 f/2.7–4.5
Exposure Control Automatic only Manual, shutter & aperture priority modes
Autofocus Contrast detect, 11 points, no manual Contrast detect, 9 points, manual focus
Viewfinder None Electronic viewfinder
LCD Screen 2.7" fixed, 230k dots 3.0" fixed, 230k dots
Video 1280×720 @ 30fps 640×480 @ 30fps
Optical Image Stabilizer Yes Yes
Flash Built-in, moderate range Built-in, longer range, rear/front curtain sync
Storage Media SD/SDHC Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo
Connectivity HDMI, USB 2.0 USB 2.0 only
Weight 151 g 547 g
Price at Launch $299.95 $79.99

Performance Ratings and Scorecard

Based on hands-on tests assessing image quality, autofocus speed, control ergonomics, and shooting versatility, the cameras earned the following overall scores and genre-specific grades:


The Sony H50 scores higher for zoom and manual controls but lags in image resolution and portability. The Panasonic FP8 shines in compact size and image detail but is hampered by limited zoom and exposure flexibility.

Final Recommendations: Which One Should You Choose?

Choose Panasonic FP8 If You:

  • Value ultra-portable, pocket-friendly design above all else
  • Prioritize moderately high-resolution still photography with decent color reproduction
  • Require simple, automatic shooting without the need for manual exposure modes
  • Seek affordable decent HD video capability on a compact camera

Choose Sony H50 If You:

  • Need powerful 15× zoom for wildlife, telephoto, or macro work
  • Desire manual control over exposure settings and manual focus capability
  • Benefit from an electronic viewfinder for outdoor composition
  • Have budget constraints but want exposure flexibility in a compact package

Closing Thoughts

Both the Panasonic FP8 and Sony H50 reflect compromises typical of their 2009 era and price segments. The FP8's ultracompact appeal and higher megapixel count attract casual photographers focused on portability and image quality within limited zoom range. Meanwhile, the H50 offers greater creative control, expansive zoom, and macro capabilities suitable for semi-advanced users willing to trade size and weight for versatility.

Neither camera would satisfy modern standards of performance or video prowess, but within the context of their time and intended user base, they represent contrasting philosophies in compact camera design. Thoughtful buyers who align their photographic requirements with these strengths and limitations will derive the most value from their chosen model.

For professional evaluation and rigorous image comparisons, readers are encouraged to review sample galleries and consider their intended photography disciplines carefully before investing in these legacy models.

End of Comparison Report

Panasonic FP8 vs Sony H50 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Panasonic FP8 and Sony H50
 Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP8Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H50
General Information
Company Panasonic Sony
Model type Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP8 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H50
Class Ultracompact Small Sensor Superzoom
Announced 2009-07-27 2009-01-15
Physical type Ultracompact Compact
Sensor Information
Processor Venus Engine V -
Sensor type CCD CCD
Sensor size 1/2.3" 1/2.3"
Sensor measurements 6.08 x 4.56mm 6.17 x 4.55mm
Sensor area 27.7mm² 28.1mm²
Sensor resolution 12MP 9MP
Anti alias filter
Aspect ratio 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 4:3 and 3:2
Highest resolution 4000 x 3000 3456 x 2592
Highest native ISO 6400 3200
Min native ISO 80 80
RAW images
Autofocusing
Focus manually
Autofocus touch
Autofocus continuous
Single autofocus
Autofocus tracking
Autofocus selectice
Autofocus center weighted
Multi area autofocus
Live view autofocus
Face detection focus
Contract detection focus
Phase detection focus
Total focus points 11 9
Lens
Lens mount type fixed lens fixed lens
Lens zoom range 28-128mm (4.6x) 31-465mm (15.0x)
Maximum aperture f/3.3-5.9 f/2.7-4.5
Macro focusing distance 5cm 1cm
Crop factor 5.9 5.8
Screen
Type of screen Fixed Type Fixed Type
Screen diagonal 2.7 inch 3 inch
Screen resolution 230 thousand dots 230 thousand dots
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch function
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type None Electronic
Features
Lowest shutter speed 60 secs 30 secs
Highest shutter speed 1/1300 secs 1/4000 secs
Continuous shooting rate 2.0fps 2.0fps
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manual mode
Exposure compensation - Yes
Custom white balance
Image stabilization
Built-in flash
Flash distance 5.50 m 9.10 m
Flash settings Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye, Slow Sync Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye reduction, Slow Sync, Front Curtain, Rear Curtain
Hot shoe
Auto exposure bracketing
White balance bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment
Average
Spot
Partial
AF area
Center weighted
Video features
Video resolutions 1280 x 720 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 240 (30 fps) 640 x 480, 30 fps, 320 x 240, 8 fps
Highest video resolution 1280x720 640x480
Video data format Motion JPEG -
Microphone port
Headphone port
Connectivity
Wireless None None
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environment sealing
Water proofing
Dust proofing
Shock proofing
Crush proofing
Freeze proofing
Weight 151g (0.33 lbs) 547g (1.21 lbs)
Physical dimensions 96 x 60 x 20mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 0.8") 116 x 81 x 86mm (4.6" x 3.2" x 3.4")
DXO scores
DXO All around rating not tested not tested
DXO Color Depth rating not tested not tested
DXO Dynamic range rating not tested not tested
DXO Low light rating not tested not tested
Other
Battery ID - NP-BG1
Self timer Yes (2 or 10 sec) Yes (2 or 10 sec)
Time lapse feature
Type of storage SD/SDHC card, Internal Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo, Internal
Card slots One One
Price at launch $300 $80