Panasonic FS42 vs Panasonic ZS40

Its time to examine more closely at the Panasonic FS42 vs Panasonic ZS40, one is a Ultracompact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are offered by Panasonic. There is a big difference between the resolutions of the FS42 (10MP) and ZS40 (18MP) and the FS42 (1/2.5") and ZS40 (1/2.3") come with different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The FS42 was introduced 5 years earlier than the ZS40 which is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic ZS40 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a short summation of how the FS42 grades versus the ZS40 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic FS42 Gallery and Panasonic ZS40 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry around your camera frequently, you'll need to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FS42 has got physical measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS40 has proportions of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FS42 vs Panasonic ZS40 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are using at the time. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the FS42 against the ZS40.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the FS42 and ZS40 is 95 and 90 respectively.

Usually, it's difficult to picture the contrast between sensor sizes only by reading through technical specs. The picture below will offer you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the FS42 and ZS40.

As you have seen, each of these cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The FS42 with its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field more difficult and the Panasonic ZS40 will give you greater detail using its extra 8MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop images a little more aggressively. The more aged FS42 is going to be behind with regard to sensor innovation.