Panasonic FS12 vs Pentax K20D

Following is a extensive assessment of the Panasonic FS12 and Pentax K20D, one is a Ultracompact and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the FS12 (12MP) and the K20D (15MP) is relatively well matched but the FS12 (1/2.3") and K20D (APS-C) come with different sensor sizing.

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The FS12 was launched 10 months after the K20D so they are of a similar generation. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic FS12 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax K20D being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving in to a in-depth comparison, below is a short highlight of how the FS12 scores against the K20D with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS12 and Pentax K20D. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic FS12 Gallery and Pentax K20D Gallery.

If you're going to carry around your camera frequently, you'll have to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FS12 has outside measurements of 97mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 129 grams (0.28 lbs) while the Pentax K20D has proportions of 142mm x 101mm x 70mm (5.6" x 4.0" x 2.8") along with a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FS12 and Pentax K20D in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you choose during that time. The following is the front view sizing comparison of the FS12 compared to the K20D.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the FS12 and K20D is 95 and 59 respectively.

Often, it is hard to imagine the difference between sensor sizes just by reading through specs. The picture here may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the FS12 and K20D.

As you can plainly see, the two cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The FS12 due to its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower depth of field trickier and the Pentax K20D will give you extra detail utilizing its extra 3MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots much more aggressively. The more modern FS12 should have an edge with regard to sensor technology.