Panasonic FS42 vs Sony W330

Here, we are reviewing the Panasonic FS42 and Sony W330, both Ultracompact cameras by brands Panasonic and Sony. There exists a huge gap among the sensor resolutions of the FS42 (10MP) and W330 (14MP) and the FS42 (1/2.5") and W330 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The FS42 was brought out 8 months prior to the W330 which means that they are of a similar generation. Both of these cameras feature the same body design (Ultracompact).

Before getting right into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the FS42 grades versus the W330 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W330. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic FS42 Gallery and Sony W330 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to travel with your camera frequently, you'll need to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic FS42 comes with 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) and the Sony W330 has specifications of 96mm x 57mm x 17mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") along with a weight of 128 grams (0.28 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic FS42 and Sony W330 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you select at the time. Here is a front view physical size comparison of the FS42 vs the W330.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FS42 and W330 is 95 and 96 respectively.

More often than not, its hard to envision the difference in sensor dimensions just by seeing specifications. The pic underneath will help provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the FS42 and W330.

Plainly, each of these cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The FS42 due to its smaller sensor will make getting shallow depth of field tougher and the Sony W330 will provide greater detail having its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop images way more aggressively. The more aged FS42 will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.