Panasonic 3D1 vs Pentax K-r

Let's look much closer at the Panasonic 3D1 vs Pentax K-r, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the 3D1 (12MP) and the K-r (12MP) is fairly comparable but the 3D1 (1/2.3") and K-r (APS-C) boast totally different sensor dimensions.

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The 3D1 was released 9 months later than the K-r so they are both of a similar age. Both the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-r being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting into a complete comparison, here is a concise view of how the 3D1 matches up vs the K-r in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 & Pentax K-r. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic 3D1 Gallery & Pentax K-r Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry your camera regularly, you will need to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic 3D1 has got 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) whilst the Pentax K-r has specifications of 125mm x 97mm x 68mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 2.7") along with a weight of 598 grams (1.32 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic 3D1 vs Pentax K-r in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you use at that time. Here is a front view size comparison of the 3D1 compared to the K-r.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the 3D1 and K-r is 93 and 67 respectively.

Oftentimes, its tough to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing purely by going through a spec sheet. The graphic here might offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the 3D1 and K-r.

As you can see, both of the cameras have the same resolution but not the same sensor sizing. The 3D1 provides the smaller sensor which should make getting shallower depth of field more challenging. The younger 3D1 is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.