Panasonic 3D1 vs Pentax K-1

Its time to look more closely at the Panasonic 3D1 and Pentax K-1, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by companies Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a huge gap between the sensor resolutions of the 3D1 (12MP) and K-1 (36MP) and the 3D1 (1/2.3") and K-1 (Full frame) offer different sensor size.

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The 3D1 was unveiled 5 years before the K-1 which is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go straight to a thorough comparison, here is a simple summary of how the 3D1 scores versus the K-1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 and Pentax K-1. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic 3D1 Gallery and Pentax K-1 Gallery.

If you are intending to travel with your camera often, you are going to need to consider its weight and size. The Panasonic 3D1 comes with external measurements of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") along with a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs) while the Pentax K-1 has specifications of 137mm x 110mm x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") along with a weight of 1010 grams (2.23 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic 3D1 and Pentax K-1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you select during that time. Below is a front view dimension comparison of the 3D1 vs the K-1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the 3D1 and K-1 is 93 and 55 respectively.

Sometimes, it's hard to imagine the difference between sensor dimensions simply by reading technical specs. The pic underneath might provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the 3D1 and K-1.

As you have seen, each of the cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The 3D1 with its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF tougher and the Pentax K-1 will deliver more detail having an extra 24 Megapixels. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots way more aggressively. The more aged 3D1 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.