Olympus SP-610UZ vs Pentax K-500

In this write-up, we are analyzing the Olympus SP-610UZ and Pentax K-500, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Olympus and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the SP-610UZ (14MP) and the K-500 (16MP) is fairly well matched but the SP-610UZ (1/2.3") and K-500 (APS-C) use totally different sensor sizes.

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The SP-610UZ was brought out 3 years prior to the K-500 which is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SP-610UZ being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-500 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a brief overview of how the SP-610UZ grades vs the K-500 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SP-610UZ and Pentax K-500. The entire galleries are available at Olympus SP-610UZ Gallery and Pentax K-500 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to travel with your camera regularly, you should factor its weight and volume. The Olympus SP-610UZ has exterior measurements of 107mm x 73mm x 73mm (4.2" x 2.9" x 2.9") having a weight of 405 grams (0.89 lbs) while the Pentax K-500 has sizing of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") having a weight of 646 grams (1.42 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SP-610UZ and Pentax K-500 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you select at that moment. Below is the front view measurement comparison of the SP-610UZ compared to the K-500.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SP-610UZ and K-500 is 79 and 64 respectively.

Normally, its hard to envision the gap between sensor dimensions just by reading through specs. The picture here will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SP-610UZ and K-500.

All in all, both of these cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The SP-610UZ featuring a tinier sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field trickier and the Pentax K-500 will give you more detail having its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics far more aggressively. The more aged SP-610UZ is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.