Nikon D780 vs Pentax K-1

The following is a in-depth review of the Nikon D780 and Pentax K-1, both Advanced DSLR cameras by rivals Nikon and Pentax. There is a significant difference among the image resolutions of the D780 (25MP) and K-1 (36MP) but they feature the same exact sensor size (Full frame).

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The D780 was introduced 3 years after the K-1 which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Mid-size SLR).

Before delving through a thorough comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the D780 grades vs the K-1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon D780 and Pentax K-1. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon D780 Gallery and Pentax K-1 Gallery.

In case you're going to travel with your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor its weight and measurements. The Nikon D780 has got outer dimensions of 144mm x 116mm x 76mm (5.7" x 4.6" x 3.0") accompanied by a weight of 840 grams (1.85 lbs) while the Pentax K-1 has proportions of 137mm x 110mm x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") along with a weight of 1010 grams (2.23 lbs).

See the Nikon D780 and Pentax K-1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you use during that time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the D780 versus the K-1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the D780 and K-1 is 57 and 55 respectively.

Generally, it is difficult to see the difference in sensor dimensions purely by researching specs. The pic below will help give you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the D780 and K-1.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same megapixels. You should count on the Pentax K-1 to result in greater detail using its extra 11 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots far more aggressively. The more modern D780 is going to have a benefit in sensor tech.