Panasonic FX78 vs Pentax P70

Here is a extended analysis of the Panasonic FX78 versus Pentax P70, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Ultracompact by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the FX78 (12MP) and the P70 (12MP) is relatively similar and they use the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The FX78 was manufactured 24 months later than the P70 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FX78 being a Compact camera and the Pentax P70 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before diving through a full comparison, below is a quick summary of how the FX78 grades versus the P70 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX78 & Pentax Optio P70. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic FX78 Gallery & Pentax P70 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry your camera often, you will have to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FX78 features outer measurements of 100mm x 55mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") with a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) whilst the Pentax P70 has proportions of 97mm x 54mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.1" x 0.9") having a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FX78 versus Pentax P70 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are employing during that time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the FX78 and the P70.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the FX78 and P70 is 95 and 95 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to envision the contrast between sensor sizing simply by reading technical specs. The visual below may give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the FX78 and P70.

As you can tell, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing and the same exact resolution so you can expect similar quality of images however you should really take the age of the products into consideration. The more modern FX78 will have a benefit in sensor innovation.