Panasonic S1R vs Pentax RZ18

Let's take a more detailed look at the Panasonic S1R versus Pentax RZ18, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There is a sizeable difference between the image resolutions of the S1R (47MP) and RZ18 (16MP) and the S1R (Full frame) and RZ18 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The S1R was manufactured 7 years later than the RZ18 and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic S1R being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax RZ18 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight to a complete comparison, here is a quick summary of how the S1R matches up against the RZ18 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DC-S1R and Pentax Optio RZ18. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic S1R Gallery and Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry your camera, you will want to factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic S1R has got physical dimensions of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") accompanied by a weight of 1020 grams (2.25 lbs) whilst the Pentax RZ18 has proportions of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic S1R versus Pentax RZ18 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you select at that moment. Following is a front view over all size comparison of the S1R vs the RZ18.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the S1R and RZ18 is 54 and 92 respectively.

Often, it is difficult to see the gap between sensor sizing only by reading technical specs. The photograph below will help give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the S1R and RZ18.

As you can tell, both cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The S1R featuring a larger sensor will make achieving bokeh simpler and the Panasonic S1R will offer you more detail due to its extra 31MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop photos a bit more aggressively. The more recent S1R will have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.