Olympus E-330 vs Pentax ist DS2

Here is a extended comparison of the Olympus E-330 versus Pentax ist DS2, both Advanced DSLR cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Pentax. The image resolution of the E-330 (7MP) and the ist DS2 (6MP) is fairly close but the E-330 (Four Thirds) and ist DS2 (APS-C) boast totally different sensor size.

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The E-330 was introduced 7 months later than the ist DS2 and they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras have the same body design (Mid-size SLR).

Before diving right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a short summation of how the E-330 scores versus the ist DS2 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus E-330 and Pentax ist DS2. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus E-330 Gallery and Pentax ist DS2 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera, you will need to think about its weight and size. The Olympus E-330 has outer measurements of 140mm x 87mm x 72mm (5.5" x 3.4" x 2.8") and a weight of 616 grams (1.36 lbs) while the Pentax ist DS2 has specifications of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") having a weight of 605 grams (1.33 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-330 versus Pentax ist DS2 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have attached at that moment. Here is a front view physical size comparison of the E-330 against the ist DS2.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the E-330 and ist DS2 is 65 and 68 respectively.

Usually, it's hard to envision the gap in sensor sizing purely by looking through a spec sheet. The photograph underneath might offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-330 and ist DS2.

Clearly, both cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The E-330 using its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower DOF trickier and the Olympus E-330 will provide you with greater detail using its extra 1 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop images a bit more aggressively. The more recent E-330 will have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.