Panasonic 3D1 vs Pentax RZ18

Below is a thorough analysis of the Panasonic 3D1 versus Pentax RZ18, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There is a noticeable difference between the sensor resolutions of the 3D1 (12MP) and RZ18 (16MP) but they possess the exact same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The 3D1 was introduced 2 months later than the RZ18 so they are both of a similar age. Each of the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before going straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a brief summation of how the 3D1 scores versus the RZ18 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1 & Pentax Optio RZ18. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic 3D1 Gallery & Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

For those who are intending to lug around your camera regularly, you are going to need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic 3D1 comes with exterior dimensions of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") and a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs) and the Pentax RZ18 has proportions of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic 3D1 versus Pentax RZ18 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you choose at that time. Underneath is the front view measurement comparison of the 3D1 and the RZ18.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the 3D1 and RZ18 is 93 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it is hard to see the gap between sensor measurements purely by looking at a spec sheet. The graphic below may offer you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the 3D1 and RZ18.

Clearly, the two cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but not the same resolution. You can expect to see the Pentax RZ18 to give you greater detail using its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos somewhat more aggressively.