Panasonic FX78 vs Sony HX50V

Here is a extended review of the Panasonic FX78 versus Sony HX50V, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Panasonic and Sony. There exists a sizeable gap among the resolutions of the FX78 (12MP) and HX50V (20MP) but both cameras provide the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The FX78 was manufactured 3 years prior to the HX50V and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before diving right into a thorough comparison, here is a concise view of how the FX78 scores against the HX50V in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX78 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX50V. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic FX78 Gallery and Sony HX50V Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry your camera, you'll have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FX78 has external measurements of 100mm x 55mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") and a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) and the Sony HX50V has dimensions of 108mm x 64mm x 38mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") with a weight of 272 grams (0.60 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FX78 versus Sony HX50V in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you select during that time. Below is a front view size comparison of the FX78 and the HX50V.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FX78 and HX50V is 95 and 89 respectively.

Normally, its hard to visualise the gap in sensor sizing just by seeing a spec sheet. The visual here will help give you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the FX78 and HX50V.

As you can see, both cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit not the same MP. You should count on the Sony HX50V to show more detail due to its extra 8MP. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures way more aggressively. The older FX78 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.