Panasonic FS42 vs Panasonic GH4

In this article, we will be reviewing the Panasonic FS42 versus Panasonic GH4, former being a Ultracompact while the latter is a Pro Mirrorless and both are manufactured by Panasonic. There exists a substantial gap among the image resolutions of the FS42 (10MP) and GH4 (16MP) and the FS42 (1/2.5") and GH4 (Four Thirds) use different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The FS42 was revealed 5 years before the GH4 and that is a fairly big difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic GH4 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before going through a step-by-step comparison, below is a concise summation of how the FS42 scores vs the GH4 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4. The full galleries are available at Panasonic FS42 Gallery & Panasonic GH4 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FS42 provides outer dimensions 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 GH4 has dimensions of 133mm x 93mm x 84mm (5.2" x 3.7" x 3.3") and a weight of 560 grams (1.23 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FS42 versus Panasonic GH4 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are using during that time. The following is the front view sizing comparison of the FS42 and the GH4.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FS42 and GH4 is 95 and 66 respectively.

Sometimes, it is tough to imagine the difference in sensor sizing just by checking out specifications. The graphic underneath will offer you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the FS42 and GH4.

Plainly, each of the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The FS42 using its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF more difficult and the Panasonic GH4 will provide greater detail because of its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop photographs a little more aggressively. The older FS42 will be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.