Nikon D800 vs Pentax K-S1

In this article, we are comparing the Nikon D800 versus Pentax K-S1, both Advanced DSLR cameras by manufacturers Nikon and Pentax. There exists a large gap among the resolutions of the D800 (36MP) and K-S1 (20MP) and the D800 (Full frame) and K-S1 (APS-C) come with different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The D800 was announced 3 years before the K-S1 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Mid-size SLR).

Before going through a detailed comparison, below is a brief view of how the D800 grades against the K-S1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon D800 & Pentax K-S1. The whole galleries are provided at Nikon D800 Gallery & Pentax K-S1 Gallery.

When you are aiming to lug around your camera regularly, you have to factor its weight and volume. The Nikon D800 features physical dimensions of 146mm x 123mm x 82mm (5.7" x 4.8" x 3.2") accompanied by a weight of 900 grams (1.98 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-S1 has sizing of 121mm x 93mm x 70mm (4.8" x 3.7" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 558 grams (1.23 lbs).

Analyze the Nikon D800 versus Pentax K-S1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you use at that moment. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the D800 compared to the K-S1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the D800 and K-S1 is 54 and 69 respectively.

Quite often, it is hard to visualize the gap in sensor measurements only by seeing a spec sheet. The photograph below may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the D800 and K-S1.

Clearly, the two cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The D800 with its larger sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Nikon D800 will show more detail with its extra 16MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop images far more aggressively. The older D800 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.