Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Pentax K-1

The following is a comprehensive comparison of the Olympus XZ-2 iHS versus Pentax K-1, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by brands Olympus and Pentax. There exists a noticeable gap among the image resolutions of the XZ-2 iHS (12MP) and K-1 (36MP) and the XZ-2 iHS (1/1.7") and K-1 (Full frame) possess different sensor size.

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The XZ-2 iHS was brought out 4 years earlier than the K-1 which is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus XZ-2 iHS being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving straight into a in depth comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the XZ-2 iHS grades against the K-1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus XZ-2 iHS & Pentax K-1. The entire galleries are available at Olympus XZ-2 iHS Gallery & Pentax K-1 Gallery.

In case you're looking to travel with your camera, you will have to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus XZ-2 iHS offers physical dimensions of 113mm x 65mm x 48mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.9") along with a weight of 346 grams (0.76 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-1 has proportions of 137mm x 110mm x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") accompanied by a weight of 1010 grams (2.23 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus XZ-2 iHS versus Pentax K-1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you choose at the time. Following is the front view size comparison of the XZ-2 iHS against the K-1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the XZ-2 iHS and K-1 is 85 and 55 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very tough to picture the contrast in sensor dimensions just by researching a spec sheet. The image below should provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the XZ-2 iHS and K-1.

As you can see, each of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The XZ-2 iHS due to its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field trickier and the Pentax K-1 will result in more detail having its extra 24 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop pictures a little more aggressively. The more aged XZ-2 iHS will be behind with regard to sensor technology.