Panasonic FZ100 vs Pentax K-50

Following is a thorough overview of the Panasonic FZ100 vs Pentax K-50, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by companies Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the FZ100 (14MP) and the K-50 (16MP) is pretty similar but the FZ100 (1/2.3") and K-50 (APS-C) have totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The FZ100 was unveiled 4 years prior to the K-50 which is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FZ100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax K-50 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise overview of how the FZ100 grades vs the K-50 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 & Pentax K-50. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FZ100 Gallery & Pentax K-50 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you have to consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic FZ100 features exterior dimensions of 124mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.2" x 3.6") along with a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-50 has sizing of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") having a weight of 650 grams (1.43 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic FZ100 vs Pentax K-50 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you select at that time. Following is a front view sizing comparison of the FZ100 against the K-50.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the FZ100 and K-50 is 67 and 63 respectively.

Often, it is very tough to visualise the contrast between sensor sizes only by reading specs. The pic underneath might give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the FZ100 and K-50.

All in all, both the cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The FZ100 using its tinier sensor will make achieving bokeh tougher and the Pentax K-50 will offer you extra detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The more aged FZ100 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.