Panasonic FH6 vs Pentax 645Z

Let's look more closely at the Panasonic FH6 vs Pentax 645Z, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Pro DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There is a considerable difference between the sensor resolutions of the FH6 (14MP) and 645Z (51MP) and the FH6 (1/2.3") and 645Z (Medium format) have different sensor dimensions.

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The FH6 was launched 3 years earlier than the 645Z which is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FH6 being a Compact camera and the Pentax 645Z being a Large SLR camera.

Before we go right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the FH6 grades against the 645Z for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH6 & Pentax 645Z. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic FH6 Gallery & Pentax 645Z Gallery.

If you are going to carry around your camera regularly, you are going to need to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic FH6 has exterior dimensions of 96mm x 56mm x 20mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.8") along with a weight of 119 grams (0.26 lbs) while the Pentax 645Z has specifications of 156mm x 117mm x 123mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.8") along with a weight of 1550 grams (3.42 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic FH6 vs Pentax 645Z in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are employing at that moment. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the FH6 and the 645Z.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the FH6 and 645Z is 96 and 49 respectively.

Usually, it is very hard to picture the contrast between sensor sizes simply by looking at specifications. The picture here will give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the FH6 and 645Z.

Plainly, the two cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The FH6 due to its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF tougher and the Pentax 645Z will resolve greater detail utilizing its extra 37MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more aged FH6 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.