Olympus FE-45 vs Pentax ist DS2

Let's examine more in depth at the Olympus FE-45 versus Pentax ist DS2, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by competitors Olympus and Pentax. There is a substantial difference among the image resolutions of the FE-45 (10MP) and ist DS2 (6MP) and the FE-45 (1/2.3") and ist DS2 (APS-C) possess totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The FE-45 was brought out 3 years after the ist DS2 which is a fairly big difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus FE-45 being a Compact camera and the Pentax ist DS2 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick view of how the FE-45 grades vs the ist DS2 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus FE-45 & Pentax ist DS2. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus FE-45 Gallery & Pentax ist DS2 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to travel with your camera, you're going to have to think about its weight and measurements. The Olympus FE-45 enjoys exterior measurements of 94mm x 62mm x 23mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") and a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) and the Pentax ist DS2 has proportions of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") and a weight of 605 grams (1.33 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus FE-45 versus Pentax ist DS2 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the FE-45 versus the ist DS2.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the FE-45 and ist DS2 is 95 and 68 respectively.

Generally, it is very tough to envision the contrast in sensor dimensions just by looking through technical specs. The image here may give you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the FE-45 and ist DS2.

As you have seen, each of these cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The FE-45 featuring a smaller sensor will make shooting shallower DOF tougher and the Olympus FE-45 will render more detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures a little more aggressively. The fresher FE-45 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.