Panasonic FZ47 vs Pentax K-3

Here is a complete comparison of the Panasonic FZ47 versus Pentax K-3, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There is a substantial difference among the resolutions of the FZ47 (12MP) and K-3 (24MP) and the FZ47 (1/2.3") and K-3 (APS-C) have different sensor size.

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The FZ47 was revealed 3 years prior to the K-3 and that is a fairly big difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FZ47 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax K-3 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a concise view of how the FZ47 grades versus the K-3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ47 & Pentax K-3. The full galleries are available at Panasonic FZ47 Gallery & Pentax K-3 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to carry your camera, you need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FZ47 features outside measurements of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") along with a weight of 498 grams (1.10 lbs) and the Pentax K-3 has dimensions of 131mm x 100mm x 77mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") with a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FZ47 versus Pentax K-3 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are working with during that time. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the FZ47 against the K-3.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the FZ47 and K-3 is 68 and 59 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's tough to visualize the difference in sensor sizing just by seeing technical specs. The visual underneath might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the FZ47 and K-3.

As you have seen, each of the cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The FZ47 having a smaller sensor is going to make shooting bokeh more challenging and the Pentax K-3 will produce greater detail because of its extra 12MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The older FZ47 will be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.