Panasonic FZ35 vs Sony A290

On this page, we are comparing the Panasonic FZ35 and Sony A290, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the FZ35 (12MP) and the A290 (14MP) is fairly similar but the FZ35 (1/2.3") and A290 (APS-C) boast different sensor sizes.

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The FZ35 was introduced very close to the A290 so they are of a similar generation. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FZ35 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony A290 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving into a complete comparison, here is a short view of how the FZ35 matches up versus the A290 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A290. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic FZ35 Gallery and Sony A290 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry around your camera regularly, you will have to take into account its weight and volume. The Panasonic FZ35 has exterior dimensions of 118mm x 76mm x 89mm (4.6" x 3.0" x 3.5") with a weight of 397 grams (0.88 lbs) whilst the Sony A290 has sizing of 128mm x 97mm x 86mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.4") with a weight of 549 grams (1.21 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FZ35 and Sony A290 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are employing at that moment. Following is a front view size comparison of the FZ35 against the A290.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FZ35 and A290 is 72 and 66 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very hard to visualize the gap between sensor sizes only by reading specifications. The image below might provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the FZ35 and A290.

Plainly, both of the cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The FZ35 with its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF more difficult and the Sony A290 will offer you more detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop photos a bit more aggressively.