Panasonic FS42 vs Pentax W80

Below is a comprehensive comparison of the Panasonic FS42 versus Pentax W80, one being a Ultracompact and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the FS42 (10MP) and the W80 (12MP) is relatively well matched but the FS42 (1/2.5") and W80 (1/2.3") feature different sensor sizing.

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The FS42 was brought out 2 months earlier than the W80 so they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax W80 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the FS42 scores versus the W80 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 and Pentax Optio W80. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic FS42 Gallery and Pentax W80 Gallery.

For those who are looking to lug around your camera often, you will want to take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic FS42 enjoys outer measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs) whilst the Pentax W80 has specifications of 100mm x 56mm x 25mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") along with a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FS42 versus Pentax W80 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Underneath is the front view dimensions comparison of the FS42 vs the W80.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FS42 and W80 is 95 and 94 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be hard to picture the contrast between sensor measurements just by looking at technical specs. The visual below will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the FS42 and W80.

As you can tell, both cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The FS42 because of its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field more challenging and the Pentax W80 will resolve greater detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures far more aggressively.