Panasonic 3D1 vs Pentax K-3

On this page, we will be comparing the Panasonic 3D1 and Pentax K-3, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a sizable gap between the resolutions of the 3D1 (12MP) and K-3 (24MP) and the 3D1 (1/2.3") and K-3 (APS-C) posses totally different sensor measurements.

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The 3D1 was announced 3 years prior to the K-3 which is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-3 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving straight to a detailed comparison, here is a simple overview of how the 3D1 grades vs the K-3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 & Pentax K-3. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic 3D1 Gallery & Pentax K-3 Gallery.

If you're going to carry around your camera regularly, you should factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic 3D1 comes with outside dimensions of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") having a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs) and the Pentax K-3 has proportions of 131mm x 100mm x 77mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") and a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic 3D1 and Pentax K-3 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you select during that time. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the 3D1 and the K-3.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 3D1 and K-3 is 93 and 59 respectively.

More often than not, it is very tough to visualise the difference between sensor sizes purely by reviewing specs. The picture underneath will help offer you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the 3D1 and K-3.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The 3D1 using its tinier sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Pentax K-3 will offer extra detail with its extra 12MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots more aggressively. The more aged 3D1 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.