Panasonic FZ80 vs Pentax K-x

Its time to look much closer at the Panasonic FZ80 vs Pentax K-x, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a large gap among the resolutions of the FZ80 (18MP) and K-x (12MP) and the FZ80 (1/2.3") and K-x (APS-C) provide different sensor sizes.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The FZ80 was revealed 7 years after the K-x which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic FZ80 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax K-x being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving right into a full comparison, here is a brief summary of how the FZ80 grades versus the K-x in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80 & Pentax K-x. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FZ80 Gallery & Pentax K-x Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FZ80 comes with physical dimensions 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-x has proportions of 123mm x 92mm x 68mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 2.7") accompanied by a weight of 580 grams (1.28 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FZ80 vs Pentax K-x in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are utilising at that time. Underneath is a front view measurement comparison of the FZ80 vs the K-x.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FZ80 and K-x is 63 and 69 respectively.

Quite often, it's hard to visualize the difference in sensor sizes merely by looking through specifications. The image here may provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the FZ80 and K-x.

To sum up, the two cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The FZ80 using its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF harder and the Panasonic FZ80 will provide you with more detail because of its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots way more aggressively. The more modern FZ80 should have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.