Panasonic FX78 vs Pentax VS20

On this page, we will be matching up the Panasonic FX78 versus Pentax VS20, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by companies Panasonic and Pentax. There is a crucial difference among the resolutions of the FX78 (12MP) and VS20 (16MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The FX78 was manufactured 12 months earlier than the VS20 so they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting straight to a full comparison, here is a concise summation of how the FX78 grades against the VS20 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX78 and Pentax Optio VS20. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic FX78 Gallery and Pentax VS20 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera regularly, you will need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FX78 offers outside dimensions of 100mm x 55mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) and the Pentax VS20 has dimensions of 111mm x 61mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 1.5") along with a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic FX78 versus Pentax VS20 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are working with at that time. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the FX78 versus the VS20.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the FX78 and VS20 is 95 and 90 respectively.

Usually, its hard to imagine the gap in sensor sizing just by viewing specs. The graphic underneath will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the FX78 and VS20.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different MP. You should expect the Pentax VS20 to result in greater detail due to its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The older FX78 will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.