Panasonic FZ47 vs Pentax K-S1

Here, we will be reviewing the Panasonic FZ47 versus Pentax K-S1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There is a big difference among the resolutions of the FZ47 (12MP) and K-S1 (20MP) and the FZ47 (1/2.3") and K-S1 (APS-C) offer different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The FZ47 was manufactured 4 years before the K-S1 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FZ47 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax K-S1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go right into a in depth comparison, here is a brief summary of how the FZ47 scores vs the K-S1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ47 and Pentax K-S1. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic FZ47 Gallery and Pentax K-S1 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FZ47 features exterior dimensions of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") accompanied by a weight of 498 grams (1.10 lbs) and the Pentax K-S1 has proportions of 121mm x 93mm x 70mm (4.8" x 3.7" x 2.8") and a weight of 558 grams (1.23 lbs).

See the Panasonic FZ47 versus Pentax K-S1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are utilising at that time. Underneath is a front view sizing comparison of the FZ47 against the K-S1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the FZ47 and K-S1 is 68 and 69 respectively.

Often, it's tough to imagine the difference in sensor sizing just by researching specs. The photograph here will provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the FZ47 and K-S1.

As you can plainly see, each of the cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The FZ47 featuring a smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF harder and the Pentax K-S1 will render greater detail due to its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures way more aggressively. The older FZ47 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.