Olympus E-510 vs Pentax K-r

Here is a extended analysis of the Olympus E-510 and Pentax K-r, former being a Advanced DSLR while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Olympus and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the E-510 (10MP) and the K-r (12MP) is relatively similar but the E-510 (Four Thirds) and K-r (APS-C) possess totally different sensor sizes.

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The E-510 was introduced 4 years before the K-r and that is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-510 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Pentax K-r being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving through a complete comparison, below is a simple summary of how the E-510 matches up vs the K-r with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus E-510 & Pentax K-r. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus E-510 Gallery & Pentax K-r Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry your camera, you will want to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-510 provides exterior dimensions of 136mm x 92mm x 68mm (5.4" x 3.6" x 2.7") with a weight of 490 grams (1.08 lbs) while the Pentax K-r has measurements of 125mm x 97mm x 68mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 2.7") along with a weight of 598 grams (1.32 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-510 and Pentax K-r in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are utilizing at the time. Following is the front view size comparison of the E-510 and the K-r.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the E-510 and K-r is 69 and 67 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is tough to envision the gap between sensor sizing simply by reviewing technical specs. The photograph below will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-510 and K-r.

As you have seen, each of the cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The E-510 using its tinier sensor will make achieving bokeh harder and the Pentax K-r will offer you extra detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures much more aggressively. The older E-510 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.