Panasonic FP1 vs Pentax K-50

In this write-up, we are matching up the Panasonic FP1 vs Pentax K-50, one being a Ultracompact and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There is a big difference between the image resolutions of the FP1 (12MP) and K-50 (16MP) and the FP1 (1/2.3") and K-50 (APS-C) come with totally different sensor sizes.

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The FP1 was launched 4 years before the K-50 and that is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FP1 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax K-50 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go through a full comparison, below is a quick summation of how the FP1 matches up against the K-50 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP1 and Pentax K-50. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic FP1 Gallery and Pentax K-50 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry your camera frequently, you'll have to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic FP1 features exterior dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") along with a weight of 151 grams (0.33 lbs) and the Pentax K-50 has sizing of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") with a weight of 650 grams (1.43 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic FP1 vs Pentax K-50 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have chosen at that moment. The following is the front view measurement comparison of the FP1 compared to the K-50.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the FP1 and K-50 is 95 and 63 respectively.

Oftentimes, its difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizing only by looking at specifications. The graphic below will provide you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the FP1 and K-50.

Plainly, the 2 cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The FP1 due to its tinier sensor will make getting bokeh more challenging and the Pentax K-50 will give more detail utilizing its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will help you crop images a little more aggressively. The older FP1 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor technology.