Panasonic 3D1 vs Pentax MX-1

Its time to look a bit more in depth at the Panasonic 3D1 versus Pentax MX-1, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the 3D1 (12MP) and the MX-1 (12MP) is relatively comparable but the 3D1 (1/2.3") and MX-1 (1/1.7") possess totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The 3D1 was revealed 20 months prior to the MX-1 which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. Each of these cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a detailed comparison, below is a short summary of how the 3D1 grades vs the MX-1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 & Pentax MX-1. The full galleries are available at Panasonic 3D1 Gallery & Pentax MX-1 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry around your camera regularly, you will have to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic 3D1 provides outside dimensions of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs) while the Pentax MX-1 has proportions of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") accompanied by a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic 3D1 versus Pentax MX-1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you choose at that time. The following is the front view sizing comparison of the 3D1 versus the MX-1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the 3D1 and MX-1 is 93 and 84 respectively.

Usually, it can be tough to see the gap in sensor sizes purely by checking out specs. The image below might give you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the 3D1 and MX-1.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras posses the exact same resolution albeit not the same sensor sizes. The 3D1 offers the smaller sensor which should make achieving shallow depth of field tougher. The more aged 3D1 will be disadvantaged in sensor technology.