Olympus E-1 vs Pentax K100D S

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Olympus E-1 and Pentax K100D S, one being a Pro DSLR and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Olympus and Pentax. The image resolution of the E-1 (5MP) and the K100D S (6MP) is pretty similar but the E-1 (Four Thirds) and K100D S (APS-C) come with different sensor sizing.

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The E-1 was unveiled 4 years earlier than the K100D S and that is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-1 being a Large SLR camera and the Pentax K100D S being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving in to a detailed comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the E-1 grades vs the K100D S when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus E-1 and Pentax K100D Super. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus E-1 Gallery and Pentax K100D S Gallery.

In case you're planning to lug around your camera often, you'll need to consider its weight and size. The Olympus E-1 enjoys outer dimensions of 141mm x 104mm x 81mm (5.6" x 4.1" x 3.2") along with a weight of 735 grams (1.62 lbs) and the Pentax K100D S has specifications of 129mm x 91mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.6" x 2.8") and a weight of 646 grams (1.42 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-1 and Pentax K100D S in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have attached at that moment. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the E-1 vs the K100D S.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-1 and K100D S is 59 and 65 respectively.

Normally, it is hard to picture the gap between sensor measurements merely by going over a spec sheet. The visual below might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-1 and K100D S.

As you can see, the 2 cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The E-1 having a tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallow depth of field tougher and the Pentax K100D S will offer greater detail having an extra 1MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop photographs a little more aggressively. The older E-1 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.