Panasonic S1 vs Pentax VS20

Let's take a more detailed look at the Panasonic S1 versus Pentax VS20, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There is a sizable difference between the resolutions of the S1 (24MP) and VS20 (16MP) and the S1 (Full frame) and VS20 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor dimensions.

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The S1 was introduced 7 years later than the VS20 and that is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic S1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax VS20 being a Compact camera.

Before going into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the S1 scores versus the VS20 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DC-S1 & Pentax Optio VS20. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic S1 Gallery & Pentax VS20 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera regularly, you have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic S1 offers external dimensions 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 VS20 has dimensions of 111mm x 61mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 1.5") with a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs).

Check the Panasonic S1 versus Pentax VS20 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you have chosen at that time. Following is a front view proportions comparison of the S1 compared to the VS20.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the S1 and VS20 is 54 and 90 respectively.

In many cases, it is difficult to see the gap between sensor sizing just by reading specifications. The photograph below may give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the S1 and VS20.

Plainly, both of the cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The S1 with its larger sensor will make getting shallower DOF easier and the Panasonic S1 will offer you extra detail using its extra 8MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop images a bit more aggressively. The fresher S1 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.