Panasonic FS42 vs Panasonic ZR1

Its time to examine more closely at the Panasonic FS42 versus Panasonic ZR1, one is a Ultracompact and the other is a Small Sensor Compact and both of them are offered by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the FS42 (10MP) and the ZR1 (12MP) is fairly well matched but the FS42 (1/2.5") and ZR1 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The FS42 was launched 3 months prior to the ZR1 which means that they are of a similar generation. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic ZR1 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a simple summary of how the FS42 grades vs the ZR1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic FS42 Gallery and Panasonic ZR1 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry around your camera often, you should factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FS42 has got external dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZR1 has proportions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") and a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic FS42 versus Panasonic ZR1 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have at that moment. Following is the front view dimension comparison of the FS42 vs the ZR1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the FS42 and ZR1 is 95 and 94 respectively.

Usually, it is very difficult to envision the difference between sensor sizes purely by checking a spec sheet. The image below might give you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the FS42 and ZR1.

As you can see, both of these cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The FS42 featuring a tinier sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field tougher and the Panasonic ZR1 will give more detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop photos far more aggressively.