Panasonic FS42 vs Panasonic GF8

Here, we will be looking at the Panasonic FS42 vs Panasonic GF8, one is a Ultracompact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both are manufactured by Panasonic. There exists a sizeable gap between the resolutions of the FS42 (10MP) and GF8 (16MP) and the FS42 (1/2.5") and GF8 (Four Thirds) boast totally different sensor sizing.

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The FS42 was manufactured 7 years earlier than the GF8 which is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic GF8 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving right into a complete comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the FS42 scores against the GF8 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF8. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic FS42 Gallery and Panasonic GF8 Gallery.

When you are aiming to travel with your camera often, you have to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FS42 provides exterior measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs) while the Panasonic GF8 has proportions of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 266 grams (0.59 lbs).

See the Panasonic FS42 vs Panasonic GF8 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are working with at the time. Underneath is a front view measurements comparison of the FS42 vs the GF8.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FS42 and GF8 is 95 and 90 respectively.

Normally, it's tough to see the gap between sensor dimensions simply by reading through specs. The image here might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the FS42 and GF8.

All in all, both of these cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The FS42 because of its tinier sensor will make achieving shallower DOF harder and the Panasonic GF8 will give more detail due to its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will enable you to crop pictures way more aggressively. The more aged FS42 is going to be behind in sensor tech.