Panasonic ZS200 vs Pentax K-3

In this write-up, we will be comparing the Panasonic ZS200 versus Pentax K-3, former being a Large Sensor Compact while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the ZS200 (20MP) and the K-3 (24MP) is relatively well matched but the ZS200 (1") and K-3 (APS-C) use totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The ZS200 was brought out 3 years later than the K-3 and that is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZS200 being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Pentax K-3 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go straight into a complete comparison, below is a simple overview of how the ZS200 grades against the K-3 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200 & Pentax K-3. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS200 Gallery & Pentax K-3 Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry your camera frequently, you need to take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS200 enjoys outer dimensions of 111mm x 66mm x 45mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.8") with a weight of 340 grams (0.75 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-3 has specifications of 131mm x 100mm x 77mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") and a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic ZS200 versus Pentax K-3 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are using at the time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the ZS200 compared to the K-3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the ZS200 and K-3 is 86 and 59 respectively.

In many cases, it can be hard to envision the gap between sensor sizing purely by reading through a spec sheet. The graphic underneath might provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZS200 and K-3.

As you can see, the 2 cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The ZS200 featuring a tinier sensor will make getting shallower depth of field more difficult and the Pentax K-3 will give you extra detail having its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures far more aggressively. The fresher ZS200 will have an advantage in sensor tech.