Panasonic FS42 vs Sony A850

A Deep-Dive Comparison Between the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A850: Which Camera Suits Your Needs?

In an era prolific with photographic technology advancements, choosing the right camera is never trivial. Here, we offer an exhaustive, technical comparison between two vastly different cameras - the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42, a 2009-era ultracompact point-and-shoot, and the Sony Alpha DSLR-A850, a 2010 full-frame DSLR geared toward advanced users. My analysis is informed by years of rigorous testing methodologies, including lab-based sensor evaluations, real-world shooting scenarios across diverse genres, and hands-on workflow assessments. This helps elucidate how each system actually performs under practical conditions to guide enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Understanding the Physical Essence and Ergonomics

The Panasonic FS42 embodies minimalism with its ultracompact form-factor designed for casual shooting. Measuring just 98x55x22 mm and weighing a featherlight 132 grams, it is pocketable, travel-friendly, and unobtrusive. By contrast, the Sony A850 is a mid-sized DSLR, with substantial heft - 895 grams and dimensions of 156x117x82 mm - built for stability and ruggedness.

The FS42’s diminutive size limits prolonged handheld comfort but excels in portability and discretion, appealing largely to street or travel photographers prioritizing convenience over control granularity. Conversely, the A850’s large grip and extensive physical controls enable ergonomic handling during extended sessions, a must for landscape, wildlife, and professional work.

Both cameras lack modern illuminated buttons or touchscreen interfaces, but the physical control density vastly differs - a topic explored further below. While the FS42 is molded for quick point-and-shoot use with minimal settings adjustment, the A850 invites tailor-made customization favored by advanced users.

Top Design and Control Philosophy: Simplicity vs. Professional Grade

On examining the top panels, the FS42 presents a highly simplified interface: no dedicated manual dials or shutter-priority modes, no aperture control - purely auto or basic scene modes. This accelerates use but sacrifices creative exposure manipulation, constraining photographers to fixed-program handling.

The A850 sports extensive manual control: dedicated shutter and aperture priority modes, ISO adjustment, exposure compensation, and even switchable drive modes. It features a top LCD screen providing at-a-glance exposure data. The button layout supports rapid access to white balance bracketing, metering modes, and focus configurations. These are essential in professional workflows where seconds count.

In practice, the A850’s tactile controls facilitate confident manual shooting - including granular depth of field and exposure control - while the FS42 may frustrate users demanding nuanced settings, particularly in challenging light or artistic applications.

Sensor Technology, Resolution, and Image Quality

The technological chasm between the sensors is pronounced. The FS42 houses a 1/2.5” CCD sensor of 10 megapixels, with dimensions roughly 5.744x4.308 mm and a resultant sensor area of 24.74 mm². Its native ISO spans from 80 to 1000, boosted to 6400, but practical high-ISO images exhibit significant noise due to sensor limitations. The CCD architecture and small photosites inherently restrict dynamic range, color depth, and low-light sensitivity.

In contrast, the A850 features a 24x36 mm full-frame CMOS sensor boasting 25 megapixels (6048x4032 resolution). This sensor offers superior low-light performance, extended dynamic range (12.2 EV measured at DXO mark), and higher color depth (approximately 23.8 bits), translating into images with greater tonal nuance and versatility for post-processing.

Testing reveals the FS42 struggles in scenes with mixed lighting or shadow detail, prone to highlight clipping and murky blacks. The A850 maintains detail in difficult contrast environments, making it invaluable for landscapes and studio work. Additionally, the A850 supports RAW shooting, essential for professional-grade editing and color management workflows, whereas the FS42 only outputs compressed JPEGs.

LCD Screen and Live View Usability

The FS42 offers a small, 2.5" fixed LCD at a modest 230,000 dots resolution, adequate for framing but not for pixel-level reviewing. It lacks touchscreen functionality and any tilting mechanism, limiting ergonomic flexibility and image appraisal fidelity.

The A850’s 3” TFT Xtra Fine LCD delivers a much clearer viewfinder substitute, with 922,000 dots enhancing composition and focus confirmation. The display strikes a balance between brightness and color accuracy critical when shooting in variable conditions. However, the A850 lacks live view mode - a limitation in modern workflows where precise manual focusing benefits from on-screen magnification.

For casual or travel shooters, the FS42’s LCD suffices but provides little advancement beyond basic framing. Advanced users will value the A850’s stably informative display despite its lack of modern live view convenience.

Autofocus, Focusing Precision, and Speed

Autofocus capabilities vastly differ between these two systems given their intended usage.

The FS42 uses a contrast-detection AF system with a single focus mode (AF single), no tracking, no face or eye detection, and no continuous focusing during bursts. It offers a macro focus distance of 5 cm but otherwise rudimentary focusing capabilities. Slow AF response and hunting in low light are frequent practical complaints.

Sony’s A850 utilizes a 9-point phase-detection autofocus with selectable and multi-area AF modes, supporting continuous autofocus suitable for action and dynamic subjects. The AF system is far faster and more precise, fundamental for wildlife, sports, and event photography. Although lacking face detection present in newer cameras, it provides vastly superior focusing reliability.

Neither camera supports eye tracking or animal eye AF - features commonplace in recent models - but the A850’s AF system remains robust for its era.

Lens Ecosystem and Flexibility

The FS42’s fixed 33-132 mm equivalent zoom (F2.8-5.9 max aperture) severely constrains creative control. No lens interchangeability or attachments exist, limiting depth of field manipulation and optical quality potential.

In opposition, the A850 takes advantage of the Sony/Minolta Alpha mount, offering compatibility with over 140 native lenses ranging from ultra-wide primes to super-telephoto zooms. This extensive ecosystem empowers specialized photography - including macro, portraits, sports, and wildlife - with glass optimized for speed, sharpness, and creativity.

The lens multiplier effect is 1x for the A850’s full frame, preserving native focal length character, whereas the FS42’s sensor crop leads to a 6.3x multiplier effect, narrowing field of view dramatically and restricting depth-of-field control.

Selecting between the fixed zoom compact and versatile interchangeable lens system underlies a fundamental philosophical divide: casual snapshotting versus committed photographic artistry.

Burst Speed, Shutter, and Exposure Control

The maximum continuous shooting speed for the FS42 is a mere 2 frames per second (fps), with shutter speeds available only up to 1/2000s. Exposure modes are limited to automatic with no shutter or aperture priority, no manual exposure modes, and no exposure compensation.

The A850 accelerates burst capture to 3 fps - not fast by modern standards but adequate for many photojournalistic or wildlife scenarios - with shutter speeds ranging 30s to 1/8000s. It supports full manual, shutter priority, aperture priority, and exposure compensation settings critical for creative exposure control.

The FS42’s limited shutter and exposure control hamper action photography and precise artistic ventures, whereas the A850’s controls unlock significant creative freedom.

Image Stabilization and Macro Capabilities

The FS42 lacks any form of image stabilization, increasing susceptibility to camera shake especially at longer focal lengths or lower shutter speeds. Its close focusing distance is 5cm, allowing modest macro capabilities for casual but not scientifically precise macro work.

Sony’s A850 compensates for camera shake through sensor-based stabilization, improving handheld sharpness - especially useful with long telephoto lenses prevalent in wildlife or sports photography. Macro performance depends on the optics attached, but the A850’s native mount supports specialized macro lenses with precise focusing and stabilization.

This difference underscores the FS42’s limitations for macro and telephoto macro applications.

Build Quality, Weather Sealing, and Durability

The FS42’s plastic ultracompact body has no weather sealing or ruggedization, making it susceptible to dust and moisture intrusion. The small size also makes it prone to accidental drops.

The A850 employs magnesium alloy construction with environmental sealing, rated to resist some dust and moisture intrusion but not waterproof or shockproof. This robustness is essential for outdoor landscape, event, or wildlife photographers operating in demanding conditions.

Professionals benefit from the A850’s build reliability, while the FS42 is better reserved for low-risk environments.

Battery Life and Storage Solutions

The FS42 uses proprietary small batteries with unknown real-world battery endurance, typically limited by compact design. Storage is via a single SD/SDHC slot and an internal memory fallback.

The A850 utilizes the NP-FM500H battery with an impressive CIPA-rated battery life of 880 shots per charge - robust for long days in the field - and dual storage slots supporting CompactFlash (UDMA) and Memory Stick cards, facilitating flexible workflow management including in-camera backups and extended storage capacity.

These distinctions matter for professional users and travelers requiring long-lasting, flexible solutions.

Video and Connectivity Capabilities

Video functionality on the FS42 is available but low resolution (max 640x480) and low frame rate (30fps), recorded in Motion JPEG format - a decent feature for its time but unsuitable for serious videography.

The A850 offers no video recording capabilities, reflecting its DSLR heritage focused on stills excellence.

Both cameras have extremely limited wireless connectivity - no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC - common for their respective release periods. The A850 supports USB 2.0 data transfer and HDMI output; the FS42 only provides USB 2.0.

Genre-Specific Performance and Use-Case Suitability

Assessing each camera’s suitability across major photographic disciplines:

• Portraiture: The A850’s full-frame sensor yields superior skin tone rendering, creamy bokeh (with fast lenses), and the option for manual focus refinements, making it ideal for studio and outdoor portrait work. The FS42 cannot create comparable background separation or color fidelity.

• Landscape Photography: The A850 excels with high resolution, dynamic range, and weather sealing. The FS42 is limited by low sensor performance and fixed zoom, suitable only for casual landscape snaps.

• Wildlife and Sports: The A850’s faster autofocus, reasonable burst speed, and lens options favor these genres. The FS42’s slow AF and fixed zoom are significant handicaps.

• Street Photography: The FS42’s pocket size is highly advantageous, allowing discreet shooting and easy portability. The A850, while capable, is less discreet and heavier.

• Macro Photography: The A850’s lens ecosystem and stabilization offer superior macro potential. The FS42’s macro is limited to casual close-ups.

• Night/Astro: The A850’s higher ISO performance and exposure control enable more effective low-light shooting. The FS42’s sensor noise at high ISO and absence of manual controls restrict astrophotography.

• Video: Neither camera provides advanced video capabilities, with the FS42 offering basic VGA resolution recording, and the A850 lacking video entirely.

• Travel: The FS42 appeals due to size and weight, but limited features and image quality may disappoint demanding travelers. The A850 offers high image quality but at a weight penalty and bulk.

• Professional Workflows: The A850 supports RAW, advanced exposure controls, and dual card slots, integrating well with professional editing and backup processes. The FS42’s JPEG-only pipeline and limited controls exclude it from serious workflows.

Sample Images and Real-World Comparisons

Panasonic FS42 front Panasonic FS42 screen back Sony A850 front Sony A850 screen back

Side-by-side image analysis clarifies these stories further. The A850 produces images with markedly improved detail, tonal gradation, and noise control across ISO ranges. Images from the FS42 often look washed out with less fine detail retrieval, especially in shadow and highlight areas.

Portrait samples reveal superior bokeh and skin rendering from the A850 due to sensor size and lens quality. Landscape images show richer dynamic range and color fidelity. Even outdoors in bright light, the FS42 images display lower resolution and compression artifacts.

Overall Performance Ratings and Value Assessment

From an expert scoring perspective, the A850 rates significantly higher, particularly in sensor performance, build quality, manual control, and image quality metrics. The FS42 ranks lower, as expected for an ultracompact designed solely for casual users.

Price-wise, the FS42 retails around $580, reflecting compact consumer market positioning. The A850, often phased out and sold used, commands no official MSRP now but historically positioned as a high-end DSLR costing well above $1500 body-only, justified by features alone.

Summary Recommendations: Matching Cameras to User Profiles

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42: Who Should Consider It?

• Casual photographers prioritizing portability and ease of use.
• Users desiring a pocket-sized camera for everyday snapshots.
• Travelers valuing light weight and simplicity over image fidelity.
• Budget-conscious buyers not requiring advanced manual controls or interchangeable lenses.
• Street photographers wanting discreet gear for candid moments.

Sony Alpha DSLR-A850: Ideal Candidates

• Serious enthusiasts or professionals prioritizing ultimate image quality.
• Portrait and landscape photographers requiring full control over exposure and file quality.
• Wildlife and sports shooters needing faster autofocus and lens versatility.
• Users with established lens collections seeking a robust full-frame camera body.
• Photographers who demand durability and weather resistance for outdoor shooting.
• Those integrating RAW workflows and dual card backups.

Final Thoughts: A Study in Camera Evolution and Purpose

This detailed comparison illustrates how camera design and technology define photographic capability and creative latitude. The Panasonic FS42 is emblematic of compact simplicity, providing ease but sacrificing depth; the Sony A850 stands as a sophisticated, professional-grade instrument demanding knowledge but rewarding with capability.

Choosing between these two depends on your photographic ambitions, budget, and use cases. For a pocketable companion, the FS42 suffices. For serious image making that leverages full sensor potential and manual expertise, the A850 remains a solid choice despite its older generation status.

If you seek the latest in autofocus sophistication, sensor tech, and connectivity, newer models may better serve, but understanding these legacy systems provides grounding in fundamental photographic principles and the evolution of camera technology.

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