Panasonic 3D1 vs Pentax K-5

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Panasonic 3D1 vs Pentax K-5, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Advanced DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a huge gap between the resolutions of the 3D1 (12MP) and K-5 (16MP) and the 3D1 (1/2.3") and K-5 (APS-C) feature different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The 3D1 was revealed 11 months after the K-5 which means that they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-5 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving through a detailed comparison, below is a concise summary of how the 3D1 grades versus the K-5 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 and Pentax K-5. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic 3D1 Gallery and Pentax K-5 Gallery.

When you are intending to travel with your camera frequently, you'll need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic 3D1 offers physical 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) and the Pentax K-5 has dimensions of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") having a weight of 740 grams (1.63 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic 3D1 vs Pentax K-5 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you use during that time. The following is the front view dimensions comparison of the 3D1 compared to the K-5.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the 3D1 and K-5 is 93 and 60 respectively.

Normally, it is difficult to imagine the gap between sensor dimensions purely by reading specs. The image below will give you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the 3D1 and K-5.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The 3D1 having a tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallow depth of field more difficult and the Pentax K-5 will offer you more detail because of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop images far more aggressively. The newer 3D1 provides an edge in sensor technology.