Panasonic FZ80 vs Pentax K-01

In this write-up, we are matching up the Panasonic FZ80 versus Pentax K-01, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the FZ80 (18MP) and the K-01 (16MP) is very well matched but the FZ80 (1/2.3") and K-01 (APS-C) use totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The FZ80 was launched 4 years after the K-01 which is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FZ80 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax K-01 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving in to a detailed comparison, below is a short view of how the FZ80 scores versus the K-01 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80 and Pentax K-01. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic FZ80 Gallery and Pentax K-01 Gallery.

In case you're going to carry around your camera, you have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FZ80 comes with outside measurements of 130mm x 94mm x 119mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 4.7") having a weight of 616 grams (1.36 lbs) while the Pentax K-01 has measurements of 122mm x 79mm x 58mm (4.8" x 3.1" x 2.3") with a weight of 561 grams (1.24 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic FZ80 versus Pentax K-01 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you choose at that time. Here is the front view scale comparison of the FZ80 against the K-01.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FZ80 and K-01 is 63 and 76 respectively.

Normally, it is very difficult to visualise the difference between sensor sizes only by looking at a spec sheet. The pic below should provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the FZ80 and K-01.

Clearly, both of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The FZ80 due to its tinier sensor will make shooting bokeh tougher and the Panasonic FZ80 will give you greater detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop images a little more aggressively. The more modern FZ80 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.