Panasonic FS12 vs Pentax 645Z

In this write-up, we are looking at the Panasonic FS12 vs Pentax 645Z, former being a Ultracompact while the other is a Pro DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a noticeable gap between the image resolutions of the FS12 (12MP) and 645Z (51MP) and the FS12 (1/2.3") and 645Z (Medium format) come with different sensor size.

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The FS12 was brought out 6 years earlier than the 645Z and that is quite a sizable difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FS12 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax 645Z being a Large SLR camera.

Before we go through a in depth comparison, below is a quick summation of how the FS12 matches up versus the 645Z in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS12 & Pentax 645Z. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic FS12 Gallery & Pentax 645Z Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera, you will need to take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic FS12 comes with outside dimensions of 97mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 129 grams (0.28 lbs) while the Pentax 645Z has specifications of 156mm x 117mm x 123mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.8") having a weight of 1550 grams (3.42 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic FS12 vs Pentax 645Z in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are utilising during that time. Underneath is the front view overall size comparison of the FS12 compared to the 645Z.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FS12 and 645Z is 95 and 49 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be hard to visualize the difference between sensor sizing just by reviewing technical specs. The visual underneath may offer you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the FS12 and 645Z.

As you can tell, both cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The FS12 because of its tinier sensor is going to make getting bokeh tougher and the Pentax 645Z will offer you greater detail having its extra 39MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop pics far more aggressively. The older FS12 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.