Panasonic FS42 vs Panasonic LX3

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Panasonic FS42 and Panasonic LX3, former is a Ultracompact while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both are created by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the FS42 (10MP) and the LX3 (10MP) is relatively well matched but the FS42 (1/2.5") and LX3 (1/1.63") come with different sensor sizing.

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The FS42 was introduced 6 months after the LX3 and they are of a similar age. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic LX3 being a Compact camera.

Before diving in to a in-depth comparison, below is a simple summary of how the FS42 grades against the LX3 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic FS42 Gallery & Panasonic LX3 Gallery.

When you are aiming to travel with your camera often, you'll need to think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FS42 features external measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs) and the Panasonic LX3 has dimensions of 109mm x 60mm x 27mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FS42 and Panasonic LX3 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. The following is the front view sizing comparison of the FS42 vs the LX3.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FS42 and LX3 is 95 and 91 respectively.

More often than not, it is very tough to visualize the difference between sensor dimensions merely by reading through technical specs. The pic underneath may provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the FS42 and LX3.

As you have seen, each of these cameras offer the same exact megapixels albeit different sensor dimensions. The FS42 comes with the tinier sensor which should make achieving shallower DOF more challenging.