Panasonic FX78 vs Panasonic GH2

Below, we are analyzing the Panasonic FX78 versus Panasonic GH2, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Advanced Mirrorless and they are both offered by Panasonic. There is a substantial difference among the resolutions of the FX78 (12MP) and GH2 (16MP) and the FX78 (1/2.3") and GH2 (Four Thirds) come with different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The FX78 was released within a month of the GH2 and they are both of a similar age. Both cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic FX78 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GH2 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving through a complete comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the FX78 scores against the GH2 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX78 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic FX78 Gallery & Panasonic GH2 Gallery.

For those who are planning to lug around your camera regularly, you should think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FX78 provides exterior measurements of 100mm x 55mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") having a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) while the Panasonic GH2 has measurements of 124mm x 90mm x 76mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 3.0") with a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic FX78 versus Panasonic GH2 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you have chosen at that time. Following is the front view proportions comparison of the FX78 against the GH2.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the FX78 and GH2 is 95 and 70 respectively.

Often, it is hard to imagine the gap in sensor measurements simply by seeing specifications. The graphic underneath might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the FX78 and GH2.

To sum up, the 2 cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The FX78 featuring a smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF more challenging and the Panasonic GH2 will produce more detail as a result of its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will help you crop photos much more aggressively.