Panasonic FS42 vs Sony RX1

Following is a in-depth assessment of the Panasonic FS42 vs Sony RX1, one is a Ultracompact and the other is a Large Sensor Compact by brands Panasonic and Sony. There exists a huge gap among the image resolutions of the FS42 (10MP) and RX1 (24MP) and the FS42 (1/2.5") and RX1 (Full frame) posses totally different sensor sizing.

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The FS42 was launched 4 years before the RX1 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony RX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before delving straight to a thorough comparison, here is a short highlight of how the FS42 matches up vs the RX1 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic FS42 Gallery and Sony RX1 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FS42 provides external measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs) whilst the Sony RX1 has measurements of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") and a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic FS42 vs Sony RX1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have chosen at the time. Here is a front view scale comparison of the FS42 vs the RX1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FS42 and RX1 is 95 and 79 respectively.

Normally, it's tough to visualise the gap in sensor sizes simply by researching specs. The picture here might provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the FS42 and RX1.

All in all, the two cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The FS42 due to its smaller sensor will make shooting shallow DOF tougher and the Sony RX1 will result in more detail utilizing its extra 14 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop photos more aggressively. The more aged FS42 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.