Nikon D500 vs Pentax K-S1

On this page, we are looking at the Nikon D500 and Pentax K-S1, both Advanced DSLR cameras by brands Nikon and Pentax. The image resolution of the D500 (21MP) and the K-S1 (20MP) is very close and both cameras provide the same sensor dimensions (APS-C).

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The D500 was brought out 17 months later than the K-S1 making them a generation apart from one another. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Mid-size SLR).

Before diving straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a simple overview of how the D500 matches up versus the K-S1 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon D500 and Pentax K-S1. The entire galleries are available at Nikon D500 Gallery and Pentax K-S1 Gallery.

For those who are going to lug around your camera, you'll need to think about its weight and measurements. The Nikon D500 offers outside dimensions of 147mm x 115mm x 81mm (5.8" x 4.5" x 3.2") accompanied by a weight of 860 grams (1.90 lbs) and the Pentax K-S1 has proportions of 121mm x 93mm x 70mm (4.8" x 3.7" x 2.8") with a weight of 558 grams (1.23 lbs).

Compare the Nikon D500 and Pentax K-S1 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are working with at that moment. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the D500 against the K-S1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the D500 and K-S1 is 56 and 69 respectively.

Quite often, it is very difficult to visualize the gap in sensor measurements simply by viewing specs. The graphic here may give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the D500 and K-S1.

As you can plainly see, the two cameras have the same sensor dimensions but different resolution. You should expect to see the Nikon D500 to result in extra detail having its extra 1MP. Greater resolution will enable you to crop pics a bit more aggressively. The more recent D500 provides an edge in sensor tech.