Panasonic S1 vs Pentax P70

Here, we will be evaluating the Panasonic S1 versus Pentax P70, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the latter is a Ultracompact by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a noticeable gap among the resolutions of the S1 (24MP) and P70 (12MP) and the S1 (Full frame) and P70 (1/2.3") have different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The S1 was revealed 10 years later than the P70 and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic S1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax P70 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before getting into a comprehensive comparison, here is a short introduction of how the S1 matches up vs the P70 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DC-S1 & Pentax Optio P70. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic S1 Gallery & Pentax P70 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera, you will want to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic S1 comes with exterior measurements of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") having a weight of 1021 grams (2.25 lbs) while the Pentax P70 has dimensions of 97mm x 54mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.1" x 0.9") with a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs).

See the Panasonic S1 versus Pentax P70 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you choose at that time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the S1 vs the P70.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S1 and P70 is 54 and 95 respectively.

Quite often, it can be tough to visualize the difference in sensor sizing only by going through technical specs. The photograph below will give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the S1 and P70.

As you have seen, both the cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The S1 with its bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF easier and the Panasonic S1 will provide more detail because of its extra 12 Megapixels. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots way more aggressively. The more modern S1 should have an advantage in sensor technology.