Panasonic FH3 vs Pentax K-r

Below, we are comparing the Panasonic FH3 versus Pentax K-r, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the FH3 (14MP) and the K-r (12MP) is very comparable but the FH3 (1/2.3") and K-r (APS-C) use totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The FH3 was revealed 14 months earlier than the K-r making the cameras a generation away from each other. Both cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic FH3 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-r being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving through a more detailed comparison, below is a short view of how the FH3 grades against the K-r in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH3 & Pentax K-r. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH3 Gallery & Pentax K-r Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to travel with your camera regularly, you'll need to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FH3 has exterior measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 24mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 165 grams (0.36 lbs) while the Pentax K-r has proportions of 125mm x 97mm x 68mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 2.7") having a weight of 598 grams (1.32 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic FH3 versus Pentax K-r in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are using at that time. Underneath is the front view dimensions comparison of the FH3 and the K-r.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the FH3 and K-r is 94 and 67 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very hard to visualise the gap in sensor dimensions only by checking out specs. The image below will help provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the FH3 and K-r.

As you can plainly see, each of the cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The FH3 with its smaller sensor will make getting shallow DOF tougher and the Panasonic FH3 will produce greater detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop images somewhat more aggressively. The more aged FH3 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.