Panasonic S1 vs Pentax ist DS2

Here, we will be reviewing the Panasonic S1 and Pentax ist DS2, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There is a crucial difference among the sensor resolutions of the S1 (24MP) and ist DS2 (6MP) and the S1 (Full frame) and ist DS2 (APS-C) boast different sensor measurements.

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The S1 was introduced 13 years later than the ist DS2 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic S1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax ist DS2 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving into a in depth comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the S1 matches up versus the ist DS2 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DC-S1 and Pentax ist DS2. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic S1 Gallery and Pentax ist DS2 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to lug around your camera, you will want to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic S1 features physical dimensions of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") and a weight of 1021 grams (2.25 lbs) while the Pentax ist DS2 has measurements of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") with a weight of 605 grams (1.33 lbs).

See the Panasonic S1 and Pentax ist DS2 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are using during that time. The following is a front view dimension comparison of the S1 versus the ist DS2.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the S1 and ist DS2 is 54 and 68 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's difficult to visualize the contrast in sensor measurements just by viewing specs. The visual underneath will give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the S1 and ist DS2.

All in all, both of these cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The S1 using its bigger sensor is going to make achieving bokeh less difficult and the Panasonic S1 will render more detail using its extra 18MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop photographs way more aggressively. The younger S1 should have an edge with regard to sensor tech.