Panasonic FX78 vs Pentax K-01

In this article, we are evaluating the Panasonic FX78 and Pentax K-01, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There is a noticeable difference among the resolutions of the FX78 (12MP) and K-01 (16MP) and the FX78 (1/2.3") and K-01 (APS-C) use totally different sensor size.

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The FX78 was brought out 16 months prior to the K-01 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FX78 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-01 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving through a in depth comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the FX78 matches up vs the K-01 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX78 & Pentax K-01. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic FX78 Gallery & Pentax K-01 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry your camera, you will need to factor its weight and volume. The Panasonic FX78 features exterior dimensions of 100mm x 55mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") with a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) while the Pentax K-01 has sizing of 122mm x 79mm x 58mm (4.8" x 3.1" x 2.3") along with a weight of 561 grams (1.24 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FX78 and Pentax K-01 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are utilising during that time. Below is the front view measurement comparison of the FX78 and the K-01.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the FX78 and K-01 is 95 and 76 respectively.

Generally, it can be tough to envision the contrast in sensor sizing purely by going through specs. The photograph below might give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the FX78 and K-01.

All in all, both of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The FX78 due to its smaller sensor will make achieving shallow DOF more challenging and the Pentax K-01 will produce more detail having its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos a little more aggressively. The older FX78 will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.