Both these Panasonic digital cameras are very identical to each other. The 7.2 MP FX07 has 1.2 (some say, insignificant) Megapixels more than the 6 MP FX01 camera, but both sport the same 3.6x optical zoom range, which is 28mm-102mm.
Very desirable cameras, especially for the 28mm wide focal length, which allows you to easily shoot wide-angle pictures of, say, the magnificent architectural structures you encounter during your vacation in Rome or Paris.
So, with the DMC-FX01 being cheaper than the FX07, what capabilities on the FX07 justifies the higher price?
I’ll summarize below the points discussed in this DPReview.com forum thread.
- Read this very extensive list comparing the pros and cons of the DMC-FX07 vs DMC-FX01. Reading through the list, I would make a strong recommendation to purchase the Panasonic FX07 if you want fuss-free, great-looking images which are ready to be printed at 4 x 6. Better automatic white balance on the FX07 means better colours, and you’re going to be able to notice that more readily than the slightly more detailed images you get from the FX01. For photographers who want absolute control in postprocessing the images, then by all means, go for the FX01.
- A higher image keeper rate is assured with the FX07 if you shoot a lot in dimly-lit situations. The camera is able to sense movement of subjects within the frame, and automatically increases the ISO to allow for faster shutter speeds. On the FX01, you’d need to manually select the appropriate ISO value.
- The FX07 is able to make use of SDHC (Secure Digital High Capacity) memory cards; not so on the FX01
- Here’s a link to a gallery of Lumix DMC-FX07 image samples
- A Canon G5 owner is thoroughly convinced by the FX07’s ability to snap outstanding out-of-cam images — read his account and view his sample images here — Markus also has a 100% crop from a FX07 test image on his Flickr gallery which you’ll find helpful for evaluating sharpness, colour, skin tone and detail.
Conclusion: Get the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX07, skip the DMC-FX01.
Other resources:
You can read up on the original Press Releases for the DMC-FX07 and DMC-FX01 to get a better idea of the specifications.