Panasonic FS12 vs Sony HX7V

On this page, we will be analyzing the Panasonic FS12 and Sony HX7V, former is a Ultracompact while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Panasonic and Sony. There exists a sizable gap among the resolutions of the FS12 (12MP) and HX7V (16MP) but both cameras have the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The FS12 was announced 3 years before the HX7V which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FS12 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony HX7V being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight to a thorough comparison, here is a quick summary of how the FS12 matches up vs the HX7V when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS12 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX7V. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic FS12 Gallery & Sony HX7V Gallery.

In case you're planning to travel with your camera regularly, you have to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FS12 has exterior measurements of 97mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 129 grams (0.28 lbs) whilst the Sony HX7V has measurements of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FS12 and Sony HX7V in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Here is a front view overall size comparison of the FS12 compared to the HX7V.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FS12 and HX7V is 95 and 92 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be tough to imagine the contrast in sensor dimensions merely by viewing specifications. The picture below might give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the FS12 and HX7V.

To sum up, the 2 cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different resolution. You can expect the Sony HX7V to result in extra detail with its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The more aged FS12 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.