Panasonic FP7 vs Pentax K-500

Here is a in-depth analysis of the Panasonic FP7 versus Pentax K-500, former being a Ultracompact while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the FP7 (16MP) and the K-500 (16MP) is pretty well matched but the FP7 (1/2.3") and K-500 (APS-C) offer totally different sensor measurements.

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The FP7 was unveiled 3 years prior to the K-500 and that is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FP7 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax K-500 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting right into a thorough comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the FP7 scores against the K-500 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP7 & Pentax K-500. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FP7 Gallery & Pentax K-500 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera often, you will have to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FP7 comes with exterior dimensions of 101mm x 59mm x 18mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") along with a weight of 147 grams (0.32 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-500 has proportions of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") and a weight of 646 grams (1.42 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FP7 versus Pentax K-500 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are working with during that time. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the FP7 versus the K-500.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the FP7 and K-500 is 95 and 64 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is hard to see the contrast between sensor sizing purely by reading through a spec sheet. The graphic here might give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the FP7 and K-500.

As you can see, both of those cameras have the same MP albeit not the same sensor sizing. The FP7 contains the tinier sensor which should make achieving shallow DOF trickier. The older FP7 is going to be behind in sensor innovation.