Panasonic FP1 vs Pentax K20D

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Panasonic FP1 versus Pentax K20D, former being a Ultracompact while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the FP1 (12MP) and the K20D (15MP) is relatively similar but the FP1 (1/2.3") and K20D (APS-C) come with totally different sensor sizing.

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The FP1 was unveiled 19 months later than the K20D which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FP1 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax K20D being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a short overview of how the FP1 grades vs the K20D with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP1 & Pentax K20D. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic FP1 Gallery & Pentax K20D Gallery.

In case you're planning to lug around your camera regularly, you'll need to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic FP1 has got physical dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") with a weight of 151 grams (0.33 lbs) while the Pentax K20D has specifications of 142mm x 101mm x 70mm (5.6" x 4.0" x 2.8") having a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FP1 versus Pentax K20D in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you have attached at that moment. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the FP1 versus the K20D.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the FP1 and K20D is 95 and 59 respectively.

In many cases, it is tough to visualise the gap between sensor measurements merely by going over a spec sheet. The visual here will provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the FP1 and K20D.

As you can see, the 2 cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The FP1 having a tinier sensor will make getting shallower depth of field harder and the Pentax K20D will offer you more detail having an extra 3 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots far more aggressively. The newer FP1 will have an edge with regard to sensor tech.