Panasonic FX48 vs Pentax K-01

Here, we will be analyzing the Panasonic FX48 vs Pentax K-01, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There is a sizeable difference between the image resolutions of the FX48 (12MP) and K-01 (16MP) and the FX48 (1/2.3") and K-01 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor sizes.

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The FX48 was unveiled 4 years prior to the K-01 and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FX48 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-01 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the FX48 grades versus the K-01 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX48 and Pentax K-01. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FX48 Gallery and Pentax K-01 Gallery.

When you are intending to lug around your camera regularly, you will need to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic FX48 provides external dimensions of 95mm x 53mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.9") having a weight of 150 grams (0.33 lbs) while the Pentax K-01 has specifications of 122mm x 79mm x 58mm (4.8" x 3.1" x 2.3") accompanied by a weight of 561 grams (1.24 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FX48 vs Pentax K-01 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are using at that time. Below is a front view dimensions comparison of the FX48 compared to the K-01.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the FX48 and K-01 is 95 and 76 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to visualise the difference between sensor measurements just by going over technical specs. The visual here might provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the FX48 and K-01.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The FX48 with its tinier sensor will make shooting shallower DOF more challenging and the Pentax K-01 will offer greater detail having an extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The older FX48 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.