Panasonic FZ200 vs Pentax ist DL2

Here, we are contrasting the Panasonic FZ200 vs Pentax ist DL2, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Advanced DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There is a noticeable difference among the image resolutions of the FZ200 (12MP) and ist DL2 (6MP) and the FZ200 (1/2.3") and ist DL2 (APS-C) offer different sensor sizes.

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The FZ200 was unveiled 6 years later than the ist DL2 and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FZ200 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax ist DL2 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple overview of how the FZ200 grades versus the ist DL2 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200 & Pentax ist DL2. The full galleries are available at Panasonic FZ200 Gallery & Pentax ist DL2 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera, you will have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FZ200 enjoys outside measurements of 125mm x 87mm x 110mm (4.9" x 3.4" x 4.3") along with a weight of 588 grams (1.30 lbs) whilst the Pentax ist DL2 has dimensions of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") accompanied by a weight of 565 grams (1.25 lbs).

See the Panasonic FZ200 vs Pentax ist DL2 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you have attached during that time. Following is a front view dimension comparison of the FZ200 against the ist DL2.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the FZ200 and ist DL2 is 65 and 69 respectively.

Often, it can be difficult to imagine the difference in sensor sizing just by seeing specifications. The visual underneath should give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the FZ200 and ist DL2.

To sum up, both of those cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The FZ200 with its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field harder and the Panasonic FZ200 will show more detail having an extra 6MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos a good deal more aggressively. The more modern FZ200 provides an advantage in sensor innovation.