Panasonic FS42 vs Sony H50

In this article, we are contrasting the Panasonic FS42 and Sony H50, one being a Ultracompact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the FS42 (10MP) and the H50 (9MP) is fairly comparable but the FS42 (1/2.5") and H50 (1/2.3") feature different sensor size.

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The FS42 was manufactured 4 months later than the H50 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 Sony H50 being a Compact camera.

Before we go in to a in depth comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the FS42 grades against the H50 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H50. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic FS42 Gallery and Sony H50 Gallery.

When you are going to carry your camera, you will have to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FS42 has physical dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs) and the Sony H50 has measurements of 116mm x 81mm x 86mm (4.6" x 3.2" x 3.4") having a weight of 547 grams (1.21 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FS42 and Sony H50 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you choose during that time. Below is the front view size comparison of the FS42 vs the H50.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the FS42 and H50 is 95 and 69 respectively.

Oftentimes, its hard to imagine the gap in sensor sizing simply by checking out technical specs. The graphic underneath may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the FS42 and H50.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The FS42 due to its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF more challenging and the Panasonic FS42 will produce more detail due to its extra 1 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop pics far more aggressively.