Panasonic FZ35 vs Pentax VS20

Let's examine more closely at the Panasonic FZ35 versus Pentax VS20, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There is a noticeable difference between the image resolutions of the FZ35 (12MP) and VS20 (16MP) but they feature the exact same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The FZ35 was unveiled 18 months earlier than the VS20 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic FZ35 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax VS20 being a Compact camera.

Before we go through a detailed comparison, below is a concise summary of how the FZ35 grades versus the VS20 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35 & Pentax Optio VS20. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FZ35 Gallery & Pentax VS20 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to lug around your camera frequently, you will have to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FZ35 comes with exterior measurements of 118mm x 76mm x 89mm (4.6" x 3.0" x 3.5") having a weight of 397 grams (0.88 lbs) whilst the Pentax VS20 has measurements of 111mm x 61mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 1.5") with a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FZ35 versus Pentax VS20 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are utilising at the time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the FZ35 vs the VS20.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the FZ35 and VS20 is 72 and 90 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very tough to visualize the gap between sensor measurements only by reading technical specs. The visual below will help offer you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the FZ35 and VS20.

As you have seen, both the cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements albeit different MP. You can expect the Pentax VS20 to offer you more detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The older FZ35 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.