Panasonic S1 vs Pentax E85

Here is a extended comparison of the Panasonic S1 and Pentax E85, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There is a noticeable difference among the sensor resolutions of the S1 (24MP) and E85 (12MP) and the S1 (Full frame) and E85 (1/2.3") come with totally different sensor sizing.

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The S1 was launched 9 years later than the E85 and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic S1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax E85 being a Compact camera.

Before going in to a detailed comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the S1 matches up vs the E85 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DC-S1 & Pentax Optio E85. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic S1 Gallery & Pentax E85 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera frequently, you will need to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic S1 has exterior measurements of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") along with a weight of 1021 grams (2.25 lbs) while the Pentax E85 has specifications of 93mm x 58mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.3" x 0.9") and a weight of 145 grams (0.32 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic S1 and Pentax E85 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are utilising during that time. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the S1 and the E85.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the S1 and E85 is 54 and 95 respectively.

Usually, it can be tough to visualise the gap in sensor sizing purely by looking through technical specs. The graphic here will help offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the S1 and E85.

As you have seen, each of the cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The S1 due to its larger sensor will make shooting shallower DOF simpler and the Panasonic S1 will result in extra detail utilizing its extra 12 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The newer S1 will have an edge in sensor innovation.