Panasonic FZ35 vs Pentax ist DL2

The following is a in-depth assessment of the Panasonic FZ35 and Pentax ist DL2, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There is a large difference among the resolutions of the FZ35 (12MP) and ist DL2 (6MP) and the FZ35 (1/2.3") and ist DL2 (APS-C) have totally different sensor sizes.

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The FZ35 was unveiled 4 years after the ist DL2 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FZ35 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax ist DL2 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go right into a complete comparison, here is a brief overview of how the FZ35 grades vs the ist DL2 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35 & Pentax ist DL2. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FZ35 Gallery & Pentax ist DL2 Gallery.

In case you're planning to travel with your camera often, you will need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FZ35 has exterior dimensions of 118mm x 76mm x 89mm (4.6" x 3.0" x 3.5") along with a weight of 397 grams (0.88 lbs) while the Pentax ist DL2 has dimensions of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") having a weight of 565 grams (1.25 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FZ35 and Pentax ist DL2 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are using at the time. The following is a front view measurement comparison of the FZ35 versus the ist DL2.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the FZ35 and ist DL2 is 72 and 69 respectively.

Usually, it's difficult to visualise the gap in sensor dimensions simply by going through a spec sheet. The picture here will help give you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the FZ35 and ist DL2.

As you can see, the 2 cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The FZ35 using its smaller sensor will make achieving shallow DOF tougher and the Panasonic FZ35 will show greater detail having an extra 6MP. Greater resolution will help you crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The fresher FZ35 is going to have a benefit in sensor technology.