Panasonic FS42 vs Sony A350

In this article, we will be matching up the Panasonic FS42 versus Sony A350, one being a Ultracompact and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. There exists a significant gap among the sensor resolutions of the FS42 (10MP) and A350 (14MP) and the FS42 (1/2.5") and A350 (APS-C) feature different sensor measurements.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The FS42 was announced 11 months later than the A350 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony A350 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving in to a detailed comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the FS42 grades against the A350 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A350. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic FS42 Gallery and Sony A350 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry your camera regularly, you are going to need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FS42 has got external measurements 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 Sony A350 has proportions of 131mm x 99mm x 75mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") with a weight of 674 grams (1.49 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FS42 versus Sony A350 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you use at the time. Below is the front view sizing comparison of the FS42 against the A350.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FS42 and A350 is 95 and 62 respectively.

More often than not, it can be difficult to picture the contrast in sensor sizing only by researching specs. The visual here should give you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the FS42 and A350.

As you can plainly see, the 2 cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The FS42 with its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field tougher and the Sony A350 will result in more detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures far more aggressively. The younger FS42 should have an advantage in sensor technology.