Panasonic FS7 vs Panasonic XS1

Below, we will be evaluating the Panasonic FS7 and Panasonic XS1, one is a Ultracompact and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both are manufactured by Panasonic. There exists a huge gap among the image resolutions of the FS7 (10MP) and XS1 (16MP) and the FS7 (1/2.5") and XS1 (1/2.3") feature different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The FS7 was unveiled 5 years before the XS1 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic FS7 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic XS1 being a Compact camera.

Before we go in to a in depth comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the FS7 scores versus the XS1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS7 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic FS7 Gallery and Panasonic XS1 Gallery.

When you are going to travel with your camera, you are going to need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FS7 offers physical dimensions of 97mm x 54mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.1" x 0.9") along with a weight of 139 grams (0.31 lbs) while the Panasonic XS1 has dimensions of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") having a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic FS7 and Panasonic XS1 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you select at that time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the FS7 compared to the XS1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FS7 and XS1 is 95 and 97 respectively.

Typically, it is very hard to picture the contrast in sensor dimensions purely by researching specifications. The picture below will give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the FS7 and XS1.

To sum up, each of these cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The FS7 with its smaller sensor is going to make shooting bokeh more difficult and the Panasonic XS1 will result in extra detail having an extra 6MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The more aged FS7 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.