Nikon S80 vs Pentax ist DL2

In this write-up, we are matching up the Nikon S80 and Pentax ist DL2, one is a Ultracompact and the other is a Advanced DSLR by brands Nikon and Pentax. There is a big difference between the resolutions of the S80 (14MP) and ist DL2 (6MP) and the S80 (1/2.3") and ist DL2 (APS-C) come with different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The S80 was brought out 4 years after the ist DL2 which is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Nikon S80 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax ist DL2 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the S80 scores against the ist DL2 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix S80 and Pentax ist DL2. The entire galleries are available at Nikon S80 Gallery and Pentax ist DL2 Gallery.

If you are planning to travel with your camera frequently, you should factor in its weight and proportions. The Nikon S80 comes with outer dimensions of 99mm x 63mm x 17mm (3.9" x 2.5" x 0.7") with a weight of 133 grams (0.29 lbs) and the Pentax ist DL2 has measurements of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") with a weight of 565 grams (1.25 lbs).

Compare the Nikon S80 and Pentax ist DL2 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you use at the time. Here is the front view dimension comparison of the S80 against the ist DL2.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the S80 and ist DL2 is 96 and 69 respectively.

Often, it is difficult to imagine the contrast between sensor dimensions merely by going over specifications. The picture underneath will help offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the S80 and ist DL2.

Plainly, the 2 cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The S80 because of its tinier sensor is going to make achieving bokeh trickier and the Nikon S80 will offer greater detail having its extra 8MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop pics a little more aggressively. The fresher S80 provides an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.