Olympus SZ-11 vs Pentax K-5

Here, we will be comparing the Olympus SZ-11 versus Pentax K-5, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by companies Olympus and Pentax. The image resolution of the SZ-11 (14MP) and the K-5 (16MP) is relatively well matched but the SZ-11 (1/2.3") and K-5 (APS-C) offer totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The SZ-11 was introduced 8 months later than the K-5 which means that they are both of a similar age. The two cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SZ-11 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-5 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go right into a in depth comparison, here is a simple view of how the SZ-11 scores versus the K-5 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-11 & Pentax K-5. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-11 Gallery & Pentax K-5 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry your camera regularly, you are going to need to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-11 enjoys physical measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") accompanied by a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-5 has measurements of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") along with a weight of 740 grams (1.63 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus SZ-11 versus Pentax K-5 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have at the time. Following is a front view proportions comparison of the SZ-11 compared to the K-5.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-11 and K-5 is 89 and 60 respectively.

Typically, it can be tough to envision the difference between sensor sizing only by looking at specifications. The graphic here may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-11 and K-5.

To sum up, both the cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The SZ-11 using its tinier sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field harder and the Pentax K-5 will give you more detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The newer SZ-11 is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.