Panasonic FS42 vs Panasonic ZS50

Let's take a deeper look at the Panasonic FS42 versus Panasonic ZS50, former is a Ultracompact while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are created by Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the FS42 (10MP) and the ZS50 (12MP) is very close but the FS42 (1/2.5") and ZS50 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The FS42 was revealed 6 years prior to the ZS50 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic ZS50 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple view of how the FS42 matches up versus the ZS50 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FS42 Gallery & Panasonic ZS50 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry around your camera often, you are going to need to factor its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FS42 comes with physical dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS50 has measurements of 111mm x 65mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.3") with a weight of 243 grams (0.54 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FS42 versus Panasonic ZS50 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you have chosen at the time. Underneath is a front view size comparison of the FS42 against the ZS50.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the FS42 and ZS50 is 95 and 90 respectively.

In many cases, it's difficult to envision the difference in sensor sizes simply by viewing specifications. The image underneath should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the FS42 and ZS50.

Plainly, both of the cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The FS42 having a smaller sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field tougher and the Panasonic ZS50 will result in extra detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop images a good deal more aggressively. The more aged FS42 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.