Panasonic FS42 vs Pentax W90

Here, we will be contrasting the Panasonic FS42 vs Pentax W90, former being a Ultracompact while the latter is a Waterproof by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the FS42 (10MP) and the W90 (12MP) is relatively close but the FS42 (1/2.5") and W90 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor dimensions.

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The FS42 was launched 10 months before the W90 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax W90 being a Compact camera.

Before getting into a complete comparison, here is a concise summary of how the FS42 grades versus the W90 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 & Pentax Optio W90. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic FS42 Gallery & Pentax W90 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FS42 enjoys external dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs) whilst the Pentax W90 has dimensions of 108mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.0") and a weight of 164 grams (0.36 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FS42 vs Pentax W90 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are using at that time. Underneath is a front view physical size comparison of the FS42 against the W90.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FS42 and W90 is 95 and 94 respectively.

Quite often, it is difficult to envision the contrast in sensor measurements purely by looking through specifications. The graphic underneath may give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the FS42 and W90.

To sum up, each of these cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The FS42 because of its smaller sensor will make getting bokeh trickier and the Pentax W90 will render greater detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures way more aggressively. The older FS42 will be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.