Olympus VR-320 vs Pentax K-1

Following is a in-depth review of the Olympus VR-320 and Pentax K-1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by manufacturers Olympus and Pentax. There exists a considerable gap between the image resolutions of the VR-320 (14MP) and K-1 (36MP) and the VR-320 (1/2.3") and K-1 (Full frame) boast totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The VR-320 was brought out 5 years prior to the K-1 which is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus VR-320 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go right into a in depth comparison, here is a simple summary of how the VR-320 grades versus the K-1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus VR-320 & Pentax K-1. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus VR-320 Gallery & Pentax K-1 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry around your camera, you will have to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus VR-320 features outer dimensions of 101mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Pentax K-1 has measurements of 137mm x 110mm x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") along with a weight of 1010 grams (2.23 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus VR-320 and Pentax K-1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you select during that time. Below is a front view physical size comparison of the VR-320 compared to the K-1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the VR-320 and K-1 is 94 and 55 respectively.

Typically, it's tough to visualise the difference between sensor sizes merely by looking at a spec sheet. The picture underneath should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the VR-320 and K-1.

Clearly, both cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The VR-320 because of its tinier sensor will make getting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Pentax K-1 will resolve extra detail having its extra 22MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures more aggressively. The more aged VR-320 is going to be behind in sensor tech.