Nikon D3S vs Pentax 645Z

Following is a in-depth comparison of the Nikon D3S versus Pentax 645Z, both Pro DSLR digital cameras by brands Nikon and Pentax. There exists a significant gap between the image resolutions of the D3S (12MP) and 645Z (51MP) and the D3S (Full frame) and 645Z (Medium format) possess totally different sensor size.

Samsung Releases Faster Versions of EVO MicroSD Cards

The D3S was announced 5 years earlier than the 645Z which is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Large SLR).

Before going through a complete comparison, below is a concise view of how the D3S grades vs the 645Z with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon D3S and Pentax 645Z. The whole galleries are available at Nikon D3S Gallery and Pentax 645Z Gallery.

In case you're going to carry around your camera frequently, you will have to take into account its weight and size. The Nikon D3S provides outside dimensions of 160mm x 157mm x 88mm (6.3" x 6.2" x 3.5") accompanied by a weight of 1240 grams (2.73 lbs) whilst the Pentax 645Z has specifications of 156mm x 117mm x 123mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.8") accompanied by a weight of 1550 grams (3.42 lbs).

See the Nikon D3S versus Pentax 645Z in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the D3S against the 645Z.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the D3S and 645Z is 51 and 49 respectively.

Quite often, it is difficult to see the contrast between sensor sizes merely by reading through specifications. The image below may offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the D3S and 645Z.

Plainly, the two cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The D3S with its tinier sensor will make getting shallower DOF more challenging and the Pentax 645Z will give greater detail with its extra 39MP. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged D3S is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.