Nikon Z50 vs Pentax K-1

Here is a complete overview of the Nikon Z50 vs Pentax K-1, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Nikon and Pentax. There is a sizable difference between the image resolutions of the Z50 (21MP) and K-1 (36MP) and the Z50 (APS-C) and K-1 (Full frame) provide different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The Z50 was unveiled 3 years later than the K-1 and that is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Nikon Z50 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K-1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go straight to a full comparison, here is a short summation of how the Z50 matches up versus the K-1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Z50 & Pentax K-1. The full galleries are viewable at Nikon Z50 Gallery & Pentax K-1 Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and volume. The Nikon Z50 enjoys physical dimensions of 127mm x 94mm x 60mm (5.0" x 3.7" x 2.4") accompanied by a weight of 397 grams (0.88 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-1 has sizing of 137mm x 110mm x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") accompanied by a weight of 1010 grams (2.23 lbs).

Compare the Nikon Z50 vs Pentax K-1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Following is a front view measurements comparison of the Z50 compared to the K-1.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the Z50 and K-1 is 74 and 55 respectively.

Generally, it can be difficult to imagine the gap between sensor sizing purely by looking at specs. The graphic here will help give you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the Z50 and K-1.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The Z50 with its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF trickier and the Pentax K-1 will resolve more detail having an extra 15MP. Higher resolution will help you crop shots way more aggressively. The younger Z50 should have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.