Nikon D40 vs Pentax K-r

Let's look more closely at the Nikon D40 vs Pentax K-r, both Entry-Level DSLR digital cameras by companies Nikon and Pentax. There is a sizeable difference between the resolutions of the D40 (6MP) and K-r (12MP) but both cameras boast the same sensor sizing (APS-C).

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The D40 was announced 5 years earlier than the K-r and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact SLR).

Before delving right into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the D40 grades vs the K-r for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon D40 and Pentax K-r. The whole galleries are available at Nikon D40 Gallery and Pentax K-r Gallery.

If you're going to lug around your camera, you need to take into account its weight and size. The Nikon D40 has external dimensions of 124mm x 94mm x 64mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.5") along with a weight of 522 grams (1.15 lbs) while the Pentax K-r has specifications of 125mm x 97mm x 68mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 2.7") having a weight of 598 grams (1.32 lbs).

Compare the Nikon D40 vs Pentax K-r in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you select at the time. The following is a front view dimension comparison of the D40 compared to the K-r.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the D40 and K-r is 71 and 67 respectively.

Often, its hard to see the contrast between sensor measurements simply by reading through specifications. The photograph underneath should provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the D40 and K-r.

To sum up, both of those cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same megapixels. You should expect the Pentax K-r to give more detail with its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The older D40 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.