Panasonic FS42 vs Sony TX200V

Here, we are looking at the Panasonic FS42 versus Sony TX200V, both Ultracompact cameras by rivals Panasonic and Sony. There exists a huge gap among the image resolutions of the FS42 (10MP) and TX200V (18MP) and the FS42 (1/2.5") and TX200V (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The FS42 was unveiled 3 years before the TX200V which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras feature the same body design (Ultracompact).

Before going straight to a complete comparison, here is a quick summation of how the FS42 scores against the TX200V with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX200V. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FS42 Gallery and Sony TX200V Gallery.

When you are looking to travel with your camera often, you have to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FS42 has got external dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs) while the Sony TX200V has proportions of 96mm x 58mm x 16mm (3.8" x 2.3" x 0.6") accompanied by a weight of 129 grams (0.28 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic FS42 versus Sony TX200V in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose at that time. Underneath is a front view overall size comparison of the FS42 against the TX200V.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FS42 and TX200V is 95 and 96 respectively.

Quite often, it is very difficult to envision the gap in sensor dimensions purely by researching technical specs. The picture below might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the FS42 and TX200V.

As you have seen, both the cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The FS42 using its smaller sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field harder and the Sony TX200V will result in more detail having an extra 8MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop images way more aggressively. The more aged FS42 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.