Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Canon G12 and Panasonic FP5 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Canon G12 has external dimensions of 112 x 76 x 48 mm (4.41 x 2.99 x 1.89″) and weighs 401 g (0.88 lb / 14.14 oz) (including batteries). Panasonic FP5 has external dimensions of 101 x 59 x 18 mm (3.98 x 2.32 x 0.71″) and weighs 141 g (0.31 lb / 4.97 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Canon G12 and the Panasonic FP5. Panasonic FP5 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 11mm narrower, 17mm shorter and 30mm thinner than Canon G12.
Here is the back view size comparison of the Canon G12 and Panasonic FP5.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Canon G12 and Panasonic FP5.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Panasonic FP5 is significantly lighter (260g ) than the Canon G12 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Canon PowerShot G12 nor Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP5 provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Panasonic FP5's 3.00" LCD screen is slightly larger than Canon G12's 2.8 screen.
On the other hand, Canon G12 sports a
Fully Articulated screen which you can change the angle and position of the screen almost freely, making it possible to shoot from waist or over-the-head levels, and especially very useful for shooting selfies and video. On the other hand, Panasonic FP5 has a fixed type screen which provides almost no flexibility in shooting positions compared to G12.