Panasonic FS7 vs Panasonic LX3

Let's look more closely at the Panasonic FS7 and Panasonic LX3, one is a Ultracompact and the other is a Small Sensor Compact and both are produced by Panasonic. The image resolution of the FS7 (10MP) and the LX3 (10MP) is very close but the FS7 (1/2.5") and LX3 (1/1.63") provide different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The FS7 was brought out 3 months after the LX3 so they are of a similar generation. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FS7 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic LX3 being a Compact camera.

Before delving into a more detailed comparison, here is a brief view of how the FS7 scores against the LX3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS7 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic FS7 Gallery and Panasonic LX3 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry around your camera often, you will have to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic FS7 offers outside measurements of 97mm x 54mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.1" x 0.9") with a weight of 139 grams (0.31 lbs) and the Panasonic LX3 has sizing of 109mm x 60mm x 27mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.1") with a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FS7 and Panasonic LX3 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Here is a front view over all size comparison of the FS7 and the LX3.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FS7 and LX3 is 95 and 91 respectively.

Quite often, it's difficult to picture the contrast in sensor sizes simply by researching specs. The picture below may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the FS7 and LX3.

All in all, both cameras have the same megapixel count but different sensor sizes. The FS7 uses the smaller sensor which is going to make achieving shallower DOF tougher.