Panasonic FZ40 vs Pentax 645Z

In this write-up, we are matching up the Panasonic FZ40 versus Pentax 645Z, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Pro DSLR by companies Panasonic and Pentax. There is a substantial difference between the sensor resolutions of the FZ40 (14MP) and 645Z (51MP) and the FZ40 (1/2.3") and 645Z (Medium format) possess totally different sensor sizes.

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The FZ40 was revealed 4 years prior to the 645Z which is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax 645Z being a Large SLR camera.

Before we go in to a thorough comparison, below is a concise overview of how the FZ40 matches up vs the 645Z with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 & Pentax 645Z. The full galleries are available at Panasonic FZ40 Gallery & Pentax 645Z Gallery.

For those who are intending to travel with your camera frequently, you are going to need to consider its weight and size. The Panasonic FZ40 features outer measurements of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") along with a weight of 494 grams (1.09 lbs) and the Pentax 645Z has specifications of 156mm x 117mm x 123mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.8") with a weight of 1550 grams (3.42 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FZ40 versus Pentax 645Z in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are using at the time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the FZ40 and the 645Z.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the FZ40 and 645Z is 68 and 49 respectively.

In many cases, it can be hard to envision the gap between sensor dimensions merely by going over technical specs. The picture here may provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the FZ40 and 645Z.

As you can tell, both cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The FZ40 having a tinier sensor will make getting shallower DOF harder and the Pentax 645Z will offer you greater detail because of its extra 37 Megapixels. Greater resolution will help you crop photos far more aggressively. The more aged FZ40 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.