Olympus SH-1 vs Pentax K-500

On this page, we will be matching up the Olympus SH-1 vs Pentax K-500, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Olympus and Pentax. The resolution of the SH-1 (16MP) and the K-500 (16MP) is relatively similar but the SH-1 (1/2.3") and K-500 (APS-C) boast totally different sensor sizing.

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The SH-1 was introduced 5 months later than the K-500 so they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus SH-1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-500 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple highlight of how the SH-1 matches up against the K-500 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus SH-1 and Pentax K-500. The whole galleries are available at Olympus SH-1 Gallery and Pentax K-500 Gallery.

If you're going to lug around your camera regularly, you should take into account its weight and size. The Olympus SH-1 features physical measurements 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-500 has specifications of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") and a weight of 646 grams (1.42 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SH-1 vs Pentax K-500 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have at that moment. Underneath is a front view sizing comparison of the SH-1 vs the K-500.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SH-1 and K-500 is 88 and 64 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very difficult to see the gap between sensor measurements purely by going over a spec sheet. The graphic underneath will help offer you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the SH-1 and K-500.

Clearly, both cameras have the same megapixel count albeit not the same sensor measurements. The SH-1 features the tinier sensor which is going to make achieving shallow depth of field more difficult.