Panasonic TS1 vs Sony W290: A Hands-On Showdown of Two 2009 Compact Cameras

When diving into the world of digital cameras, it’s not always the latest and greatest that captures our imagination - sometimes, it’s the quiet workhorses from the past that tell a story. Today, I’m unpacking a fascinating comparison between two compact 2009 cameras: the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS1 (aka Panasonic TS1) and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W290 (or simply W290). Though both target the compact segment and share some traits, they couldn’t be more different in purpose and design philosophy.

Having tested thousands of cameras over my 15-plus years as a reviewer, I know this isn’t just about specs scribbled on paper - it’s about real-world performance, usability across many photo genres, and durability that will stand the rigors of travel or adventure. So buckle up. We’re blending fact, experience, and a pinch of good-natured skepticism on marketing hype to help you decide which camera (if either) deserves a spot in your camera bag.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Ergonomics Under the Microscope

Before hunting for the sharpness or autofocus prowess, it’s wise to start with what you physically hold. The Panasonic TS1 presents itself as a rugged, adventure-ready compact, while the Sony W290 aims to be your friendly everyday companion.

The TS1’s body measures 98x63x23 mm and weighs 189 grams. It’s built with environmental sealing - waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof - making it a rugged little beast designed for the outdoor enthusiast. You could realistically take the TS1 on a kayaking trip or a slick hike without fearing a single drop of water or shock.

By contrast, the Sony W290 is slightly lighter (167 g) and a smidge slimmer at 98x57x23 mm but lacks any sort of weather sealing. Its compactness is a boon for pocket shooters, but its delicate build means it’s more at risk on adventures. It’s a true “small sensor compact” that fits easily into daily carry without the bulk or weight.

Ergonomically, the TS1’s controls feel robust and are shaped for a secure grip - important when your fingers are numb with cold or slippery. The W290, sporting a sleeker profile, sacrifices some grip comfort for stylish portability - the kind of camera that slips into handbags as easily as jeans pockets.

Looking at the button layout from above, you can start to appreciate each brand’s design ethos:

Panasonic keeps things simple but purposeful, with hard, tactile buttons and dials designed for one-handed operation without fumbling - no touchscreen or illuminated controls here. Sony, meanwhile, opts for minimalist styling; while the buttons aren’t as bold, the larger screen compensates slightly on the W290 for intuitive navigation.

At a glance, the Panasonic TS1 feels like a tough companion for rugged journeys, while the Sony W290 courts casual shooters craving simplicity and lightness.

Sensor Showdown: Same Size Sensor, Different Execution?

Both cameras sport a 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor with a resolution of 12 megapixels - standard fare for 2009 compacts. However, sensor size is only part of the story.

Panasonic’s TS1 sensor measures about 6.08 x 4.56 mm, with an area of roughly 27.72 mm², while Sony’s W290 sensor edges slightly larger at 6.17 x 4.55 mm (28.07 mm²). Though negligible on paper, even a fractionally larger sensor area may affect low-light sensitivity and noise performance.

The CCD architecture in both favors immediate snapshots over longer exposures and complex scenes - expected at this price and segment in 2009. Panasonic’s TS1 max ISO reaches 6400, a bit more ambitious than Sony’s W290 max ISO of 3200. However, practical use shows that pushing either beyond ISO 400 introduces noise rapidly - common for CCD sensors.

The anti-aliasing filter in both cameras softens images to reduce moiré but at a slight resolution cost. Neither camera shoots RAW, locking you into compressed JPEG files from the get-go, which truncates post-processing flexibility - a bummer for pros seeking ultimate control.

Panasonic also offers a slightly wider focal range zoom (28-128 mm, 4.6x optical zoom) versus Sony’s 28-140 mm (5x zoom). Sony gains here in reach, but at a sharper maximum aperture (F3.3-5.2 vs. TS1’s F3.3-5.9), so it’s a decent balance.

The sensor is only part of the ecosystem, though - lens quality and image processing hugely influence final results, as we’ll see below.

Viewing and Interface: Where the Panasonic TS1 Starts to Show Wear

In 2009, LCD screens ruled the viewfinder game on compacts. Neither camera offers an electronic viewfinder - something that adventurous or bright-light shooters may regret.

The Panasonic TS1 has a modest fixed 2.7-inch display at 230k dots, while Sony’s W290 sports a larger 3-inch screen with the same resolution. The extra real estate of the W290 helps compose shots and navigate menus more comfortably.

From user experience, I found Sony’s interface snappier and more intuitive - perhaps helped by the bigger screen and seasoned UI design from the brand’s Cyber-shot line. Panasonic's menus felt slightly clunky by comparison, with fewer customization options (no manual or aperture priority modes, for example).

Neither camera has touchscreen capability or selfie-friendly flip screens, so the user experience is fairly basic across the board.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Slow and Steady?

Here’s where reality check sets in. Both cameras rely on contrast-detection autofocus with no phase detection elements, which translates to slower AF performance, particularly in low light or fast-action scenarios.

Panasonic’s TS1 features 11 focus points, while Sony’s W290 drops to 9, but in practice, selective AF areas are somewhat rudimentary on both. Autofocus is center-weighted and single-shot only - no continuous AF tracking, no face or eye detection help.

Continuous shooting hovers at 2 FPS max for both cameras - not a speed demon by any measure. This makes either camera unsuitable for fast sports or wildlife tracking, where burst speed and autofocus lock are paramount.

In my tests, the W290 grabbed focus slightly faster in good light - possibly because of less processing overhead - but both struggled as light dimmed or subjects moved quickly.

Neither camera offers manual exposure or manual focus modes, limiting creative control. For macro shooters, Panasonic’s minimum focus distance is a commendable 5 cm vs. Sony’s 10 cm, giving the TS1 an edge in close-up shots.

Image Quality in Different Genres: Real-World Use Cases

When it comes to applying these cameras across photography styles, understanding strengths and compromises matters.

Portrait Photography

Neither camera is ideally suited for professional portraiture but can deliver acceptable results in daylight.

• Panasonic’s lens offers decent bokeh on the long end of its zoom but with the smaller sensor, the background blur isn't as creamy or pronounced compared to larger sensor cameras.
• Sony’s wider zoom reach is tempting for varied composition but features a sharper max aperture, aiding background separation somewhat.
• Neither has face or eye detection, so capturing sharp eyes depends on careful manual framing and timing.

Skin tones on both look natural but lack the nuanced color depth a DSLR or mirrorless camera offers. The Olympus OR Fujifilm X series would handily outclass both here.

Landscape Photography

Here, resolution and dynamic range shine - areas where these cameras face some challenges.

The Panasonic TS1's waterproof and dustproof body shines for landscapes in demanding outdoor conditions - rain, dust, or beach sand won’t hold it back. Sony’s W290 lacks any weather sealing, so caution is advisable outdoors.

Dynamic range suffers in both - shadows clip more quickly on the TS1, while the W290 holds detail marginally better but with more visible noise.

Neither camera produces razor-sharp edges at 100% crop, something landscape shooters will notice when printing larger than postcard size.

Wildlife Photography

Autofocus speed and telephoto reach dictate success here.

Sony’s 140 mm max focal length beats Panasonic’s 128 mm, but 140 mm equivalent zoom is just the beginning for wildlife - you usually want 300+ mm.

Autofocus tracking is sluggish on both, with no continuous mode or AI tracking assistance, leading to missed shots on moving subjects.

Neither camera’s burst rate or buffer depth will win races - just two frames per second, so fast-moving birds are mostly out of reach.

Sports Photography

A similar story applies - as much as I hoped the rugged TS1 might shoot the local soccer game with flair, its AF and frame rate hold it back.

Sony W290’s slightly faster shutter maxes at 1/1600s versus 1/1300s on Panasonic - minutely better for freezing motion.

Ultimately, if action photography thrills you, neither camera will satisfy serious needs.

Street Photography

Weight (lighter is better) and discretion (smaller is better) shine here.

Sony's sleeker profile and lighter weight trump Panasonic’s rugged body for street shooters wanting a stealthy setup.

Both cameras manage ISO sensitivities that suffice for daylight or well-lit urban scenes, although low-light isn't their strong suit.

Macro Photography

Panasonic’s 5 cm minimum focus beats Sony’s 10 cm noticeably - meaning you can get closer and fill the frame better.

Both cameras lack focus stacking, but the Panasonic’s slightly faster optical image stabilization helps with hand-held close-ups.

Night and Astrophotography

Shooting stars or urban nights is where these cameras show their limitations.

The Panasonic TS1 allows shutter speeds as long as 60 seconds - useful for light trails and night shots - while Sony’s longest shutter is just 2 seconds.

Panasonic’s higher max ISO (6400 vs. 3200) looks promising but noise quickly digs in above ISO 400. Sony’s improved dynamic range here aids detail retention, but noise is still a persistent issue.

Neither supports RAW, so noise reduction happens in-camera with limited flexibility.

Video Capabilities: Basic but Functional

Video in 2009 compacts was more novelty than tool, and these models reflect that.

• Panasonic TS1 records 720p HD at 30 fps in AVCHD Lite format.
• Sony W290 records 720p at 30 fps but in MPEG-4 format.

Both have limited frame options and no external mic or headphone jacks, so audio recording remains basic.

Optical image stabilization helps for smoother handheld video.

Neither camera supports 4K or higher-res video as that era was still mastering HD.

For casual clips, both suffice; for serious video work… well, you’d have to look elsewhere.

Battery Life and Storage: Everyday Practicalities

Neither camera specifies exact battery life, typical of compacts of this vintage. But in practical use:

• Panasonic uses proprietary lithium-ion batteries with moderate endurance due to rugged design.
• Sony also uses proprietary batteries designed for lightweight use.

Storage differs substantially: Panasonic accepts SD/SDHC cards, Sony uses Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo - the latter being more niche and expensive.

Both have USB 2.0 ports and HDMI outputs, enabling image transfer and TV viewing, but no wireless connectivity speaks to their age.

Environmental Durability and Reliability: Panasonic’s Clear Advantage

For photographers prone to adventure travel or working in harsh conditions, reliability is paramount.

Panasonic’s TS1 excels with weather sealing - waterproof to 10m, dustproof, and shock resistant. It even claims freeze-proof down to 14°F (-10°C). This kind of ruggedness makes it a solid choice for mountaineers, snorkelers, or rough terrain shooters unwilling to baby their gear.

Sony’s W290 sports no environmental sealing and requires extra care outdoors, making it better suited to controlled environments (family parties, street photography in urban settings).

Lenses and Compatibility: Fixed Lens Simplicity

Both cameras come with built-in zoom lenses - no lens swaps here.

Panasonic’s 28-128mm F3.3-5.9 and Sony’s 28-140mm F3.3-5.2 provide moderate flexibility for travel and everyday shooting but have limitations in speed and clarity compared to interchangeable lenses.

The TS1’s shorter zoom range may feel restrictive at the long end, while Sony’s slightly longer reach could be advantageous in some situations.

Price-To-Performance: How Does Your Wallet Feel?

Originally priced around $380 for Panasonic and $230 for Sony, these cameras catered to different budgets.

• Panasonic TS1 commands a premium for toughness and waterproofing.
• Sony W290 offers more bang for your buck in zoom range, screen size, and portability.

Both lack RAW support, manual control modes, and modern connectivity, showing their age clearly.

For budget casual users prioritizing ease and simplicity, the Sony W290 is attractive. For those valuing durability or outdoor capability, Panasonic’s TS1 justifies its higher price.

Summary of Scores and Recommendations

Here's a quick visual rundown of how these cameras stack across key criteria:

And a genre-specific breakdown showing respective strengths and weaknesses:

Real-Life Sample Images: How Do They Compare?

When put through the wringer, sample images reveal subtle but telling differences.

Panasonic's photos have a slight edge in macro sharpness and low-light flexibility (thanks to longer shutter speeds). Sony images are crisper in daylight with a little more color pop but struggle more in low light.

Panasonic TS1 front Panasonic TS1 screen back Sony W290 front Sony W290 screen back

That said, neither produces the punch or detail sharpness expected of modern cameras, nor do they hold up well under cropping. But within their era and price points, these shots are perfectly respectable.

Final Thoughts: Which Camera Fits Your Photography Life?

Who Should Pick Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS1?

• Outdoor adventurers needing waterproof/dustproof protection
• Casual photographers who want ruggedness over fancy features
• Macro shooters benefiting from closer focusing distances
• Users valuing slower shutter speeds for night work

The Panasonic TS1 isn’t cutting-edge in 2024 terms, but the reliability and build give it enduring appeal.

Who Should Choose Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W290?

• Budget-conscious buyers seeking compact portability
• Everyday users prioritizing easy shooting and a larger screen
• Casual travel photographers who don’t expose gear to harsh conditions
• People who want slightly longer zoom reach within a tiny, lightweight body

The W290 is a friendly, simple camera ready for street snaps and family moments - not rugged adventures.

And Who Should Consider Looking Elsewhere?

Photography enthusiasts or pros who want manual control, RAW files, faster autofocus, or modern connectivity definitely need to upgrade - both cameras serve mainly as entry-level or secondary units by today’s standards.

In Conclusion: A Nostalgic Nod to Compact Cameras of Yesteryear

Comparing the Panasonic TS1 and Sony W290 reveals a snapshot (pun intended) of a transitional time in digital photography: ruggedness vs convenience, durability vs lightweight portability, and the beginnings of wider sensor adoption still years away.

Both cameras have clear use cases and limitations well rooted in their 2009 launch dates, but they still offer uniquely attractive reasons to keep in your kit if their strengths align with your shooting style.

When you want a durable camera ready for the elements - Panasonic’s your guy. Need something small, simple, and pocketable? Sony wins out. My advice is to hold both, shoot a little with each, and measure which fits your rhythm best - because, as anyone who has tested thousands of cameras knows, the best camera is the one you’re comfortable using.

Thanks for joining me on this nostalgic camera comparison journey. If you have experiences with either camera or want recommendations for more modern alternatives that address their weaknesses, drop a comment or reach out. Happy shooting!