Panasonic 3D1 vs Pentax K-500

Below, we will be comparing the Panasonic 3D1 vs Pentax K-500, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There is a huge difference between the resolutions of the 3D1 (12MP) and K-500 (16MP) and the 3D1 (1/2.3") and K-500 (APS-C) feature different sensor sizing.

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The 3D1 was unveiled 3 years earlier than the K-500 which is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-500 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go in to a detailed comparison, below is a short summary of how the 3D1 grades versus the K-500 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 and Pentax K-500. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic 3D1 Gallery and Pentax K-500 Gallery.

When you are going to carry around your camera often, you have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic 3D1 features outside measurements of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-500 has dimensions of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") and a weight of 646 grams (1.42 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic 3D1 vs Pentax K-500 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 are working with at that time. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the 3D1 vs the K-500.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the 3D1 and K-500 is 93 and 64 respectively.

In many cases, it is very tough to imagine the difference between sensor sizes merely by looking at specifications. The picture below should offer you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the 3D1 and K-500.

Plainly, both of those cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The 3D1 using its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field harder and the Pentax K-500 will give you greater detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots much more aggressively. The more aged 3D1 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.