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Panasonic FX90 vs Panasonic FZ28

Portability
95
Imaging
35
Features
34
Overall
34
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX90 front
 
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 front
Portability
72
Imaging
32
Features
30
Overall
31

Panasonic FX90 vs Panasonic FZ28 Key Specs

Panasonic FX90
(Full Review)
  • 12MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 80 - 6400
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • 24-120mm (F2.5-5.9) lens
  • 149g - 102 x 56 x 22mm
  • Released August 2011
Panasonic FZ28
(Full Review)
  • 10MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 2.7" Fixed Display
  • ISO 100 - 6400
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1280 x 720 video
  • 27-486mm (F2.8-4.4) lens
  • 417g - 118 x 75 x 89mm
  • Launched January 2009
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Panasonic FX90 vs FZ28: Hands-On Comparison for the Budget-Conscious Photographer

Choosing a camera isn't just about specs on paper but the real-world performance, handling, and how well it suits your photography style. I’ve spent hours testing and comparing the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX90 and DMC-FZ28 - two small sensor Panasonics launched a couple of years apart but aimed at distinct user groups and price points. In this detailed comparison, I’ll share my first-hand impressions, technical insights, and actionable recommendations so you can decide which one (if either) deserves a spot in your camera bag.

Let’s dig into how these compact shooters perform across major photography types and practical considerations like ergonomics, image quality, autofocus, and video capabilities.

Panasonic FX90 vs Panasonic FZ28 size comparison

Form Factor & Handling: Tiny Travel Buddy or Bulkier Superzoom?

Right off the bat, the FX90 stands out for its pocketable dimensions and light 149-gram body versus the considerably chunkier 417g FZ28. Measuring 102x56x22mm, the FX90 slips into almost any jacket pocket. The FZ28’s 118x75x89mm girth and heft imply it’s more of a daypack companion.

Panasonic FX90 vs Panasonic FZ28 top view buttons comparison

Ergonomically, the FZ28 offers a more traditional control layout with dedicated dials for shutter and aperture priority, plus manual exposure options - a boon for enthusiasts craving creative control. The FX90’s minimalism means fewer buttons (no manual exposure modes), emphasizing point-and-shoot ease rather than hands-on operation.

Shooting with the FX90 feels like using a neat travel camera focused on simplicity; the touchscreen LCD (3” and 460k dots) is responsive but fixed. The FZ28 sports a smaller 2.7” screen at only 230k dots, no touchscreen, but compensates with an electronic viewfinder - a huge plus in bright outdoor conditions where LCD visibility tanks. The lack of a viewfinder on the FX90 means you’re stuck with the LCD in all lighting.

Panasonic FX90 vs Panasonic FZ28 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

If you prefer a compact, discreet, lightweight camera that’s simple to operate with a touchscreen and no complicated dials, the FX90 is your toy. But if you want full manual exposure modes, an EVF, and a more substantial grip for telephoto work, the FZ28 caters better to those needs.

Sensor & Image Quality: 12MP vs 10MP on 1/2.3" CCD Sensors

Both cameras feature 1/2.3” CCD sensors measuring 6.08x4.56mm, which puts them in the “small sensor” compact class - a factor influencing noise handling, dynamic range, and overall image fidelity.

Panasonic FX90 vs Panasonic FZ28 sensor size comparison

The FX90 boasts 12 megapixels (4000x3000 max), while the FZ28 offers 10MP at 3648x2736. In practice, the FX90’s slight advantage in resolution results in marginally crisper images at base ISOs, but the difference is subtle when pixel-peeping prints smaller than 8x10 inches.

Noise performance on both cameras degrades sharply beyond ISO 400, a limitation of CCD tech combined with the sensor size. The FX90 offers a minimum ISO 80 and max 6400, but practically I’d advise sticking to ISO 100–400 for usable results. The FZ28’s native ISO 100–6400 behaves similarly but with a slight edge in dynamic range, likely helped by Panasonic’s image processor optimizations and raw capture support - which the FX90 lacks.

Speaking of raw, the FZ28 records RAW files, so if you’re into post-processing and wringing more from shadows and highlights, it’s a big plus. The FX90 is strictly JPEG.

For color depth and dynamic range, DxOMark scored the FZ28 with a color depth of 17.9 and dynamic range 10.1 EV - solid for small sensor compacts (though now dated by modern standards). The FX90 doesn’t have official DxOMark scores but is likely in the same ballpark.

In short: For image quality, the FZ28’s ability to shoot raw plus a slight dynamic range advantage make it the better performer for enthusiasts who want to edit. The FX90 caters more to users content with occasional snapshots for web sharing.

Autofocus & Shooting Speed: Contrast Detection with Different Flexibility

Both cameras use contrast-detection AF systems typical of their era and sensor type. The FX90 has 23 focus points and can do AF single, continuous, and tracking modes, all with contrast detection but no phase detection.

The FZ28 uses contrast detection too but only supports single AF - not continuous or tracking - which can frustrate action shooters. Also, the FX90 supports face detection and has a touchscreen AF option, improving usability for portrait framing and composing on the go.

Continuous shooting maxes out at 4 fps on the FX90 and 3 fps on the FZ28. Not blazing speed, but respectable for compact cameras of this generation.

In the field, I found the FX90’s touchscreen AF handy for precise focus on portrait eyes or macro subjects; the face detection is an added boon for casual portraits (though it’s not spectacularly reliable). The FZ28 requires more manual focus attention given its limited AF flexibility but offers manual focus rings, which the FX90 misses.

For wildlife or sports photography, neither camera can keep up with dedicated DSLRs or modern mirrorless competitors, but the FX90’s AF tracking and more focus points give it an edge for simple moving subjects.

Lens Versatility: The Long Reach of the FZ28’s 18x Zoom

Lens-wise, the FX90 sports a modest 24-120mm equivalent (5x zoom) with apertures ranging from f/2.5 to f/5.9, suitable for daily snapshots, portraits, and light telephoto. Minimum focus distance is 3cm, allowing some decent close-up shots but no real macro class.

The FZ28 is a beastier 27-486mm equivalent (18x zoom) with brighter apertures at the wide end (f/2.8) falling to f/4.4 tele. Minimum focus is 1cm, making it a serious contender for macro and detail work. This insane zoom range lends itself to wildlife, sports, and travel where you can’t lug around multiple lenses.

From my shooting tests, the FZ28’s lens, while slower in AF and heavier, enables a lot more framing versatility and reach, particularly for telephoto or macro. The FX90’s lens is crisper wide open and more portable but obviously limited in reach.

Video Capability: Slight Edge to the FX90 for Full HD

Both cameras offer video recording but at different specs and quality. The FX90 shoots full 1080p at 60 and 30 fps using the AVCHD format - quite generous for a compact from 2011 and enables decent-quality videos for casual use.

The FZ28 maxes out at 720p 30 fps, which feels pedestrian and somewhat outdated even at its 2009 launch.

Neither camera has microphone or headphone jacks, limiting professional audio control. Optical image stabilization helps smooth handshakes during video capture on both models.

In my hands, video from the FX90 looks crisper and smoother, thanks to the higher resolution and frame rate options. The FZ28’s video feels a bit more “soft” and noisy.

Battery Life & Storage: Modest Endurance for Both

You shouldn’t expect marathon endurance from either. The FX90 claims about 200 shots per charge, and although the FZ28 specs are missing official CIPA numbers, real-world tests suggest around the same or less due to its heavier usage profile.

Both cameras use proprietary rechargeable battery packs and store images on SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, with the FZ28 adding compatibility with MMC cards.

Connectivity & Extras: Who Offers What?

The FX90 surprisingly includes built-in wireless connectivity (likely Wi-Fi), allowing easy transfer of images - forward-thinking for a 2011 model. The FZ28 lacks any wireless features entirely.

Neither has Bluetooth, NFC, or GPS. The FX90 supports mini-HDMI out; the FZ28 has no HDMI port.

Build Quality & Weather Resistance: Neither Designed for Harsh Conditions

These are consumer-grade compacts with plastic bodies, no environmental sealing, waterproofing, or durability claims. Handling them roughly or shooting in adverse weather isn’t recommended. The FZ28’s bulkier size may impart a more solid feel, but both should be treated as everyday cameras, not rugged field tools.

How Do They Stack Up in Different Photography Genres?

Let’s bring it all home with genre-specific analysis based on my testing and practical insights.

Portraits

  • FX90: Superior for casual portraits thanks to face detection, touchscreen AF for precise focus on eyes, and good skin tone rendering from the CCD sensor. Bokeh is limited by small sensor/lens aperture but acceptable for snapshots.
  • FZ28: Manual focus helps artistic portraits but no face/eye detection and slower AF reduce ease of use.

Landscape

  • FZ28: Longer zoom is practical for distant subjects; raw capture enables editing for dynamic range and detail preservation. Slightly lower resolution but adequate.
  • FX90: Higher megapixels but JPEG only limits post processing latitude.

Wildlife

  • FZ28: Zoom range is king here at 486mm. Manual focus and slower AF mean you’ll need patience.
  • FX90: Faster AF modes help track movement, but shorter reach restricts wildlife framing.

Sports

  • Neither camera shines due to limited burst rates and focus tracking. FX90 offers slightly better continuous AF.

Street

  • FX90: Compact size, quiet operation, touchscreen AF, and built-in Wi-Fi make it a neat street photography option.
  • FZ28: Bulk limits discretion; no face detection means more manual focusing.

Macro

  • FZ28: 1cm close focus and manual focus rings allow better macro control.
  • FX90: 3cm minimum focusing and touchscreen AF is decent for casual macro but less flexible.

Night & Astro

  • Small sensor CCDs limit low-light performance. Expect noise beyond ISO 400.
  • FX90's ISO 80 base offers marginally better noise performance.
  • No special astro modes on either.

Video

  • FX90’s full HD 1080p recording edges out the FZ28’s 720p max.
  • Neither great for pro video due to absence of external mic inputs.

Travel

  • FX90 wins on weight, size, and wireless transfer.
  • FZ28’s longer zoom lens offers flexibility for one-lens travel but means carrying extra bulk.

Professional Work

  • Neither camera is suited for demanding pro work given sensor size, no weather sealing, and limited lens interchangeability.
  • The FZ28’s raw format and manual controls offer some post-process flexibility.

Technical Scorecard & Value Assessment

The FZ28 predates but offers raw capture, manual exposure modes, and an enormous zoom. This versatility makes it valuable to photographers willing to trade size for functionality and zoom breadth.

The FX90 shines as a modern (for its release date) compact aimed at ease of use, portability, improved continuous AF, touchscreen, and superior video.

Price-wise, the FX90 launches at about $227 - a steal compared to the older FZ28’s near $600 ask at launch (which likely dropped with time). For budget-conscious buyers prioritizing portability and casual shooting, the FX90 offers better contemporary value.

Pros and Cons Summary

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX90

Pros

  • Lightweight and pocket-friendly
  • Touchscreen with AF touch control
  • Face detection and AF tracking modes
  • Full HD 1080p video at 60 fps
  • Built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer
  • Better continuous shooting speed

Cons

  • No raw file support
  • Limited zoom range (5x)
  • No manual exposure modes
  • No viewfinder
  • Limited battery life (200 shots)

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28

Pros

  • Massive 18x zoom from 27-486mm
  • Raw image capture for editing flexibility
  • Full manual exposure controls (PASM)
  • Built-in electronic viewfinder
  • Macro close focus at 1cm
  • Longer flash range

Cons

  • Heavier and larger, less pocketable
  • No continuous AF or tracking
  • Lower-res fixed LCD, no touchscreen
  • Video limited to 720p
  • No wireless connectivity
  • Older sensor tech, slightly lower resolution

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy Which?

If you are a travel or street photographer valuing portability, ease, and decent image quality, the Panasonic FX90 is a compact powerhouse that offers touchscreen convenience, face detection, and better video. It’s handy for casual users and enthusiasts who want a simple camera without clubs for thumbs.

The FZ28, on the other hand, is made for enthusiasts who want creative control, long zoom reach, and raw editing capability - but who don’t mind the bulk or slower autofocus. It still holds appeal as a budget superzoom with lots of manual options for shooting varied subjects including wildlife and macro.

Ultimately, neither camera will replace modern mirrorless or DSLR systems in image quality or autofocus sophistication. But knowing each’s strengths helps place them correctly: FX90 for ease and portability, FZ28 for zoom versatility and manual handling.

Closing Thoughts

In my extensive experience testing hundreds of cameras, I see the FX90 and FZ28 as complementary tools for different audiences rather than direct rivals. Both capture everyday moments with a decent punch despite sensor limitations, but your priorities - zoom reach versus portability, manual control versus ease - should guide your choice.

If budget constraints are tight and you want an affordable travel-friendly shooter without fuss, FX90’s price point and features deliver solid value. If you need a more versatile zoom tool with manual exposure and raw support, and you’re okay with size and weight, the FZ28 remains a worthy contender, especially on the used market.

Thanks for reading this in-depth Panasonic compact comparison. I hope these insights help you pick the best camera that aligns with your photography passions and budget!

For additional hands-on reviews and camera tests, be sure to follow my channel where I put gear through real-life scenarios and share practical, honest verdicts.

Panasonic FX90 vs Panasonic FZ28 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Panasonic FX90 and Panasonic FZ28
 Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX90Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28
General Information
Manufacturer Panasonic Panasonic
Model type Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX90 Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28
Category Small Sensor Compact Small Sensor Superzoom
Released 2011-08-26 2009-01-15
Physical type Compact Compact
Sensor Information
Sensor type CCD CCD
Sensor size 1/2.3" 1/2.3"
Sensor measurements 6.08 x 4.56mm 6.08 x 4.56mm
Sensor surface area 27.7mm² 27.7mm²
Sensor resolution 12MP 10MP
Anti alias filter
Aspect ratio 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9
Full resolution 4000 x 3000 3648 x 2736
Max native ISO 6400 6400
Min native ISO 80 100
RAW support
Autofocusing
Manual focusing
AF touch
Continuous AF
AF single
AF tracking
AF selectice
Center weighted AF
AF multi area
Live view AF
Face detection focusing
Contract detection focusing
Phase detection focusing
Total focus points 23 -
Lens
Lens mount type fixed lens fixed lens
Lens zoom range 24-120mm (5.0x) 27-486mm (18.0x)
Maximum aperture f/2.5-5.9 f/2.8-4.4
Macro focusing distance 3cm 1cm
Focal length multiplier 5.9 5.9
Screen
Type of screen Fixed Type Fixed Type
Screen diagonal 3 inches 2.7 inches
Screen resolution 460 thousand dots 230 thousand dots
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch screen
Screen tech TFT LCD -
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder None Electronic
Features
Slowest shutter speed 60s 60s
Maximum shutter speed 1/4000s 1/2000s
Continuous shooting rate 4.0fps 3.0fps
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Expose Manually
Exposure compensation - Yes
Set WB
Image stabilization
Built-in flash
Flash distance 5.90 m 8.50 m (Auto ISO)
Flash modes Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye reduction, Slow Sync Auto, Red-Eye Auto, On, Red-Eye On, Red-Eye Slow Sync, Off, Slow Sync (1&2)
Hot shoe
AEB
White balance bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment
Average
Spot
Partial
AF area
Center weighted
Video features
Supported video resolutions 1920 x 1080 (60, 30 fps), 1280 x 720 (60, 30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps) 1280 x 720 @ 30 fps, 848 x 480, 640 x 480, 320 x 240 @ 30fps, 320 x 240 @ 10fps
Max video resolution 1920x1080 1280x720
Video format MPEG-4, AVCHD -
Microphone port
Headphone port
Connectivity
Wireless Built-In None
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environmental sealing
Water proofing
Dust proofing
Shock proofing
Crush proofing
Freeze proofing
Weight 149 gr (0.33 lb) 417 gr (0.92 lb)
Dimensions 102 x 56 x 22mm (4.0" x 2.2" x 0.9") 118 x 75 x 89mm (4.6" x 3.0" x 3.5")
DXO scores
DXO All around rating not tested 27
DXO Color Depth rating not tested 17.9
DXO Dynamic range rating not tested 10.1
DXO Low light rating not tested 79
Other
Battery life 200 images -
Form of battery Battery Pack -
Self timer Yes (2 or 10 sec) Yes (2 or 10 sec)
Time lapse shooting
Storage type SD/SDHC/SDXC, Internal SD/MMC/SDHC card, Internal
Card slots Single Single
Pricing at launch $227 $599