Olympus SH-1 vs Pentax K-5

Following is a complete comparison of the Olympus SH-1 versus Pentax K-5, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by competitors Olympus and Pentax. The resolution of the SH-1 (16MP) and the K-5 (16MP) is relatively close but the SH-1 (1/2.3") and K-5 (APS-C) boast different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The SH-1 was introduced 3 years after the K-5 which is a fairly large difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SH-1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-5 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving into a in depth comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the SH-1 scores vs the K-5 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus SH-1 & Pentax K-5. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus SH-1 Gallery & Pentax K-5 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry around your camera, you have to think about its weight and size. The Olympus SH-1 provides external dimensions of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") with a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) while the Pentax K-5 has specifications of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") with a weight of 740 grams (1.63 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SH-1 versus Pentax K-5 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are employing at the time. Below is a front view dimensions comparison of the SH-1 and the K-5.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SH-1 and K-5 is 88 and 60 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to visualize the contrast in sensor sizes only by viewing specs. The picture below will help give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SH-1 and K-5.

All in all, both of the cameras feature the identical megapixels albeit different sensor sizes. The SH-1 provides the smaller sensor which will make getting shallow DOF more difficult. The more modern SH-1 should have an edge when it comes to sensor technology.