Panasonic FS42 vs Sony S980

In this article, we will be reviewing the Panasonic FS42 versus Sony S980, one being a Ultracompact and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The image resolution of the FS42 (10MP) and the S980 (12MP) is relatively close but the FS42 (1/2.5") and S980 (1/2.3") use different sensor sizes.

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The FS42 was manufactured 2 months later than the S980 and they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony S980 being a Compact camera.

Before diving through a more detailed comparison, below is a quick view of how the FS42 matches up versus the S980 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic FS42 Gallery and Sony S980 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry your camera regularly, you are going to need to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FS42 provides outside 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 Sony S980 has proportions of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic FS42 versus Sony S980 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you use at that moment. Underneath is the front view overall size comparison of the FS42 and the S980.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FS42 and S980 is 95 and 94 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very hard to visualize the difference in sensor sizing only by viewing a spec sheet. The graphic underneath will give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the FS42 and S980.

As you can see, the 2 cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The FS42 due to its smaller sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF trickier and the Sony S980 will render extra detail due to its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures far more aggressively.