Panasonic FS42 vs Panasonic G5

Here is a thorough analysis of the Panasonic FS42 versus Panasonic G5, one being a Ultracompact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and they are both created by Panasonic. There is a big difference among the resolutions of the FS42 (10MP) and G5 (16MP) and the FS42 (1/2.5") and G5 (Four Thirds) feature totally different sensor sizing.

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The FS42 was brought out 4 years earlier than the G5 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic G5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight into a thorough comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the FS42 grades versus the G5 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G5. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic FS42 Gallery and Panasonic G5 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera regularly, you are going to need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FS42 comes with external measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs) while the Panasonic G5 has measurements of 120mm x 83mm x 71mm (4.7" x 3.3" x 2.8") with a weight of 396 grams (0.87 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FS42 versus Panasonic G5 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you use at that time. Underneath is the front view dimensions comparison of the FS42 against the G5.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the FS42 and G5 is 95 and 74 respectively.

Generally, it is very difficult to envision the contrast in sensor sizing just by seeing a spec sheet. The visual underneath will help give you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the FS42 and G5.

As you can see, both of the cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The FS42 featuring a smaller sensor will make achieving shallow DOF harder and the Panasonic G5 will show more detail having its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will let you crop photos far more aggressively. The older FS42 will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.