Panasonic FP5 vs Pentax K-500

Here, we are looking at the Panasonic FP5 versus Pentax K-500, one being a Ultracompact and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the FP5 (14MP) and the K-500 (16MP) is fairly similar but the FP5 (1/2.3") and K-500 (APS-C) boast totally different sensor measurements.

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The FP5 was announced 3 years before the K-500 and that is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FP5 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax K-500 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting right into a thorough comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the FP5 grades versus the K-500 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP5 and Pentax K-500. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic FP5 Gallery and Pentax K-500 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry your camera, you will need to factor its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FP5 provides exterior measurements of 101mm x 59mm x 18mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") with a weight of 141 grams (0.31 lbs) and the Pentax K-500 has measurements of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") with a weight of 646 grams (1.42 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FP5 versus Pentax K-500 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you select at the time. The following is a front view physical size comparison of the FP5 and the K-500.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FP5 and K-500 is 95 and 64 respectively.

Sometimes, it's difficult to see the contrast between sensor sizing purely by reading specs. The visual underneath should give you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the FP5 and K-500.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The FP5 with its tinier sensor will make achieving bokeh tougher and the Pentax K-500 will offer you extra detail with its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics way more aggressively. The older FP5 is going to be behind in sensor tech.