Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX700 vs Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX70: A Definitive Compact Camera Showdown

When it comes to small sensor compact cameras, sometimes the old chestnut applies: “Good things come in small packages.” But if you’re hunting for the ideal travel companion or a handy secondary camera, it’s crucial to scrutinize exactly what those small packages bring to the table - beyond mere pocketability.

Today, I’m diving deep into a side-by-side comparison of two popular small sensor compacts from the early 2010s that still hold interesting lessons for today’s buyers: the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX700, launched mid-2010, and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX70, coming on the scene in early 2012. Both lean into ultra-portable convenience with fixed zoom lenses and streamlined controls, but they differ significantly in sensor prowess, user interface, and image quality potentials.

Having spent many hours shooting in a wide variety of conditions with both these cameras, I’ll break down everything from build quality to autofocus speed, image performance to video capabilities, and beyond. I’ll also share real-world insights - where they shine, where they struggle - and offer definitive buying guidance depending on your photography style and budget.

Let’s crack on.

Let’s Get Physical: Size, Ergonomics, and Build Quality

The first impression always starts with how a camera feels in your hand, how intuitively the buttons are placed, and whether its size fits your carrying style. As compact cameras, both the FX700 and WX70 aim to minimize bulk.

Looking at the dimensions and weight, the Panasonic FX700 measures 104 x 56 x 25 mm and weighs 176 grams, while the Sony WX70 is noticeably smaller and lighter at 92 x 52 x 19 mm and just 114 grams. Holding both, you immediately notice the Sony’s slimness and featherweight advantage, a real plus if pocket carry and ultra discreet shooting matter for you - think street photographers or travelers who like to pack light.

That said, the Panasonic's slightly larger size translates to a more confident grip. The FX700’s thicker body provides room for a thumb rest and somewhat tactile buttons that reduce fumbling - especially in cold weather or when wearing gloves. The Sony, while compact, feels a bit cramped with its slighter button real estate and flat body, which can make steady one-handed shooting challenging over time.

Moving above to design and controls:

Panasonic gives the FX700 a more traditional compact camera layout with dedicated mode dials and well-spaced controls. Manual focus, exposure compensation, and program modes are all physically accessible - invaluable for photography purists who crave tactile feedback and precise tweaks on the fly.

Sony’s WX70 aims for simplicity, even omitting full manual exposure modes and manual focus entirely, which might irk enthusiasts who want creative input beyond point-and-shoot. I’d say the Sony is designed for users who prefer fully automated shooting or minimal intervention; the Panasonic targets the enthusiast who likes some creative control yet doesn’t want a heavier system.

Both cameras lack weather sealing or ruggedization, so if shooting in wet or dusty environments is part of your workflow, consider this a strict indoor or fair-weather option.

Sensors and Image Quality: Crunching the Numbers and Real-World Shots

Given both cameras sit in the same small sensor category, understanding their sensor technology and how it translates to image quality is key. The sensor is the heart of any camera, and subtle differences here influence everything from resolution to low-light performance.

Both cameras pack a 1/2.3" type sensor (commonly found in compact cameras), with near-identical physical dimensions: Panasonic at 6.08x4.56 mm, Sony slightly larger at 6.17x4.55 mm.

However, the Sony WX70 edges ahead with a 16-megapixel BSI-CMOS sensor, compared to Panasonic’s 14-megapixel CMOS. This difference may seem incremental on paper, but the back-side illuminated (BSI) design on Sony’s sensor enhances light-gathering efficiency, which generally results in superior low-light performance and less noise at higher ISO settings.

Talking maximum ISO sensitivities, I pulled some real-world ISO tests comparing noise performance. While neither camera is a low-light specialist, I found the Sony WX70 grants cleaner images up to ISO 800 and usable results at ISO 1600. The Panasonic FX700 maxes out at ISO 6400 but displays heavier noise and image softness beyond ISO 400, limiting practical high-ISO use.

For static subjects and good lighting, Panasonic’s slightly larger aperture at the wide end (F2.2) provides a brightness advantage compared to Sony’s F2.6. This aperture also helps in creating reasonable background separation at 24mm equivalent, good for casual portraits.

Rendered colors and white balance tuning felt more natural and less punchy on the Panasonic. The Sony tends to slightly boost saturation and contrast, which some may like for on-screen pop but can be less accurate when post-processing.

Sample images below showcase both cameras tackling identical scenes. Notice how the Sony’s images have crisper detail and better highlight preservation in the sky, whereas Panasonic delivers smoother tones with less aggressive sharpening but softer details overall.

Panasonic FX700 front Panasonic FX700 screen back Sony WX70 front Sony WX70 screen back

Autofocus & Speed: Who’s Quicker on the Draw?

One of the trickiest parts about compact cameras is autofocus performance - especially if you’re shooting wildlife, sports, or street scenes where you have mere moments to capture action.

Both cameras use contrast-detection autofocus systems, inherently slower and less reliable than DSLR or mirrorless phase detection. Panasonic’s FX700 focuses reasonably well on static and well-lit subjects but struggles in very low contrast or dim scenes. It provides only single-shot AF, with no continuous autofocus mode, and no tracking.

The Sony WX70, despite lacking manual focus, integrates face detection and surprisingly effective tracking autofocus, which helps maintain focus on moving subjects moderately well for a point-and-shoot. Continuous AF modes are not available either, but the AF speed is notably quicker in daylight.

Both cameras offer a maximum continuous burst shooting rate of 10 fps, which sounds great on paper. In reality, buffer limits and autofocus hunting mean this only excels when focus is locked, and you’re shooting static or very slow subjects. For sports or wildlife enthusiasts, neither will fulfill the need for rapid and precise tracking, but the Sony's tracking AF gives it a modest leg up.

Display & User Interface: How You See and Control Your Shots

The rear LCD and menu interface strongly affect everyday usability.

Both cameras feature a 3-inch fixed LCD screen, but here is where the Sony really stands out. Its WX70 has a high-resolution 922k-dot XtraFine TFT LCD, delivering sharp previews and vibrant colors which make composition and review easier.

The Panasonic FX700’s screen is a more modest 230k-dot panel - much lower resolution - resulting in a grainier preview especially in bright daylight. Both support live view with framing guides, but Sony’s larger display brightness and resolution ease framing and menu navigation.

Touchscreen operation is present on both, albeit very basic, but Panasonic has a touch interface that lets you select focus points and navigate menus. Sony’s touch is less cooperative in my experience, feeling more like a concession feature than a fully realized control system.

Lens Capabilities: Zoom Range and Aperture Drama

A camera’s lens defines not just what you can photograph but how creatively you can express yourself.

Panasonic deploys a 24–120mm equivalent zoom with F2.2 to F5.9 aperture range, while Sony offers a slightly tele-leaning 25–125mm equivalent at F2.6 to F6.3. Both sports roughly a 5x optical zoom, appropriate for compact camera optics of their era.

The Panasonic's wider maximum aperture at the short end means better low-light capture and greater background separation potential, especially when shooting portraits or close-ups. It also supports a macro focus distance down to 3 cm, making it easier to get close to tiny subjects.

The Sony’s macro is limited to 5 cm, a small but noticeable difference when you want those extreme close-ups. Neither camera offers optical zoom stabilization while zooming; image stabilization operates continuously to counteract handshake, particularly useful for telephoto shots.

If bokeh (background blur) is important, both cameras are limited by sensor size and aperture - they only deliver moderate blur effects. Panasonic's slightly better aperture on the wide end adds an edge for subject isolation, though.

Video Capabilities: Crispness, Stability, and Sound

Both cameras offer Full HD 1080p video at 60fps, an impressive spec for compact cameras launched in 2010–2012.

Panasonic’s FX700 records video in the AVCHD format, specialized for high compression and decent quality, and lacks external microphone input or headphone jacks. The Sony WX70 records in MPEG-4 and AVCHD, broadening compatibility and providing slightly better compression options.

Neither camera offers 4K video (unsurprising on their release dates), nor external audio support or advanced video features like focus peaking or zebras. Both have optical image stabilization active during video, which helps smooth out typical handheld jitters.

I found Panasonic’s video color reproduction smoother, while Sony’s could appear slightly oversharpened during playback. In low light, Sony’s superior sensor helps reduce noise in footage up to ISO 800.

In short, both produce usable HD video for casual recording but fall short of any serious videography needs.

Battery Life and Storage: How Long Will You Shoot?

Battery life impacts how long you can stay out without recharge or spare power.

Sony rates the WX70 at approximately 240 shots per charge on the NP-BN battery pack, aligning with typical small sensor compacts but requiring some discipline to conserve power if shooting a whole day.

The Panasonic FX700's manufacturer does not specify battery life in detail, but from my experience, expect between 220–280 shots, depending on screen usage and flash frequency.

Both cameras rely on single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slots, with Sony’s WX70 adding compatibility to Memory Stick Duo formats - a bit of a legacy holdover that is rarely used now but might appeal to certain Sony users.

Connectivity and Extras: What Else is in the Box?

Neither camera features wireless connectivity such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC - pretty standard fare for their time but a clear missing convenience feature for today’s instant sharing culture.

They both have mini HDMI outputs to display full-resolution images and video on external screens and USB 2.0 ports for charging and file transfers, an acceptable albeit slow interface by modern standards.

Neither offers GPS or environmental sealing, restricting their appeal for travel photographers who need geo-tagging or rugged capabilities.

How Do They Handle Different Photography Styles?

Let’s break down their strengths and weaknesses across popular photography disciplines, grounding it in my hands-on tests.

Portrait Photography

Panasonic’s wider aperture and touch-to-focus help nail skin tones realistically, offering smoother bokeh potential at 24mm. Lack of face or eye detection AF limits focusing precision, especially in complex compositions.

Sony edges ahead on focusing thanks to its face detection and tracking AF, plus the higher resolution sensor allows more cropping flexibility. Overall, I’d say Sony is better suited for casual portraiture, Panasonic more for controlled, artistic shots.

Landscape Photography

Both cameras offer decent resolution (14MP vs 16MP) and typical 1/2.3” sensors with antialias filters that smooth fine detail slightly. Dynamic range is limited but Sony’s BSI sensor yields moderately better shadow retention. Panasonic’s slightly wider lens can capture broader scenes at 24mm equivalent.

Neither camera is weatherproof - a minus for tough outdoor use. Panasonic’s manual modes help enthusiasts dial in precise exposure, an advantage.

Wildlife Photography

Neither compact shines here, but Sony’s faster and more reliable autofocus tracking and modestly faster shot-to-shot times provide more chances to capture quick animal movements. Panasonic’s single AF and slower acquisition limit this use-case.

Sports Photography

Similar story. Neither offers fully continuous autofocus or fast electronic shutters. Sony’s 10 fps burst is no match for professional DSLRs or mirrorless, but it can capture casual fast action. Panasonic’s manual controls help exposure, but focusing lag is limiting.

Street Photography

Sony’s smaller, lighter body and quieter operation suit street photography well. Its superior LCD preview helps frame shots discretely.

Panasonic’s bulkier frame and louder shutter may draw attention but offers manual exposure control useful in mixed lighting or tricky urban scenes.

Macro Photography

Panasonic wins here - its 3cm macro minimum focusing distance allows close-up shots with tasty detail. Sony’s 5cm minimum macro distance is less flexible. Neither offers focus stacking or bracketing.

Night & Astrophotography

Neither sensor excels in long exposures or very high ISO. Panasonic has wider aperture but shows more noise. Sony’s higher max ISO and BSI tech make it somewhat better in low light. Both cameras lack bulb modes or advanced astro functions.

Video

Both cameras record 1080p at 60fps but lack pro-level controls or audio input. Sony’s MPEG-4 support provides broader editing flexibility; Panasonic’s AVCHD yields higher compression quality. Neither cameras are best-in-class video tools, but serviceable for casual shoots.

Travel Photography

Sony scores here thanks to its smaller size, better LCD, and light weight - easy for carry-on or day trips where you want a backup camera that won’t weigh you down. Panasonic’s enhanced control and lens versatility have value but comes at the cost of bulk.

Professional Work

Both cameras fall short here. No RAW support (Panasonic especially), limited lens options (fixed lens only), and lack of environmental sealing or tethering hinder professional workflows.

Price and Value: Which One Makes More Sense Today?

At their core, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX700 launched around $399 (new), with Sony WX70 closer to $240. Currently available only used or refurbished, these prices reflect their era but help guide value assessment.

If your priority is affordability combined with okay image quality and creative control - Panasonic’s manual modes and slightly faster aperture deliver for enthusiasts on a tighter budget.

If you prefer a lighter, more pocketable option with better autofocus practicality, higher resolution, and stronger low-light shooting, and you can find a Sony WX70 in good condition around the $200 mark, it’s the smarter pick.

Summing It Up: Which Should You Choose?

Here’s a quick snapshot of my overall assessment:

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX700

• Pro: Manual exposure modes, wider max aperture, better macro focus distance, sturdier grip
• Con: Slower AF, lower-res screen, noisier high ISO images, heavier body
• Best for: Enthusiasts wanting creative control in a compact package, macro shooters, casual portraits where bokeh matters

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX70

• Pro: Higher resolution sensor with BSI tech, superior autofocus with face tracking, excellent LCD, lighter and smaller body
• Con: No manual exposure or manual focus, narrower aperture, shorter battery life
• Best for: Casual shooters prioritizing portability, street and travel photographers wanting quick reliable AF and vibrant screen, better low light stills

Parting Thoughts Based on My Testing Experience

If you told me I had to pick one for daily carry in 2024, without any other gear, the Sony WX70 would win hands down for versatility and sneakiness. It's simply easier to throw in a jacket pocket and grab the moment with quicker AF and better preview.

But for those who don’t mind the extra bulk and crave more artistic control, especially at wider apertures and close focus distances, the Panasonic FX700 remains a versatile workhorse that teaches you photography fundamentals with its more manual-friendly design.

Both cameras taught me just how far small sensor compacts have come - and how, despite their limitations, they can still delight if you know what trade-offs you’re making.

If you’re on a budget and seek the best used compact under $250, Sony WX70 is your bet. But if you stumble on a used FX700 for a great deal, especially if macro or manual controls excite you, it’s a worthwhile companion.

Thanks for letting me share my hands-on impressions. If you have questions about these cameras or want me to test a modern equivalent, drop me a line!

For further image and technical breakdowns, see my accompanying images inserted above.