Panasonic FH1 vs Pentax K20D

Here is a detailed analysis of the Panasonic FH1 vs Pentax K20D, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the FH1 (12MP) and the K20D (15MP) is very well matched but the FH1 (1/2.3") and K20D (APS-C) offer different sensor sizing.

Apple Innovates by Creating Next-Level Optical Stabilization for iPhone

The FH1 was brought out 19 months later than the K20D making them a generation apart from one another. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FH1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K20D being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving right into a more detailed comparison, here is a quick summation of how the FH1 grades against the K20D in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH1 and Pentax K20D. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic FH1 Gallery and Pentax K20D Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera often, you will need to factor its weight and volume. The Panasonic FH1 provides physical dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 163 grams (0.36 lbs) whilst the Pentax K20D has sizing of 142mm x 101mm x 70mm (5.6" x 4.0" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FH1 vs Pentax K20D in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are working with at that time. Following is a front view measurements comparison of the FH1 versus the K20D.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FH1 and K20D is 95 and 59 respectively.

Typically, its tough to visualize the difference between sensor sizing simply by looking at specs. The visual underneath may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the FH1 and K20D.

All in all, both of the cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The FH1 because of its tinier sensor is going to make getting bokeh tougher and the Pentax K20D will give you greater detail having its extra 3 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop images way more aggressively. The more recent FH1 provides an edge with regard to sensor innovation.