Panasonic FP3 vs Pentax ist DL2

Lets look closer at the Panasonic FP3 versus Pentax ist DL2, former is a Ultracompact while the other is a Advanced DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a substantial gap among the image resolutions of the FP3 (14MP) and ist DL2 (6MP) and the FP3 (1/2.3") and ist DL2 (APS-C) provide different sensor size.

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The FP3 was unveiled 4 years after the ist DL2 which is a fairly big difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FP3 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax ist DL2 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the FP3 matches up vs the ist DL2 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP3 & Pentax ist DL2. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FP3 Gallery & Pentax ist DL2 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to travel with your camera regularly, you have to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic FP3 offers physical measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") with a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs) and the Pentax ist DL2 has specifications of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") with a weight of 565 grams (1.25 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FP3 versus Pentax ist DL2 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are employing at that moment. Below is a front view proportions comparison of the FP3 vs the ist DL2.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FP3 and ist DL2 is 95 and 69 respectively.

Normally, it is tough to imagine the gap in sensor dimensions only by going through specs. The picture here may give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the FP3 and ist DL2.

All in all, both of these cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The FP3 using its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field trickier and the Panasonic FP3 will produce more detail having an extra 8MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics way more aggressively. The newer FP3 should have an edge with regard to sensor technology.