Panasonic GX1 vs Pentax K-S1

Following is a comprehensive review of the Panasonic GX1 vs Pentax K-S1, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the GX1 (16MP) and the K-S1 (20MP) is pretty similar but the GX1 (Four Thirds) and K-S1 (APS-C) use different sensor sizes.

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The GX1 was manufactured 3 years prior to the K-S1 which is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic GX1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K-S1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go through a thorough comparison, below is a simple overview of how the GX1 matches up versus the K-S1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1 & Pentax K-S1. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic GX1 Gallery & Pentax K-S1 Gallery.

If you are going to carry around your camera often, you will want to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GX1 provides exterior measurements of 116mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") along with a weight of 318 grams (0.70 lbs) while the Pentax K-S1 has measurements of 121mm x 93mm x 70mm (4.8" x 3.7" x 2.8") and a weight of 558 grams (1.23 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic GX1 vs Pentax K-S1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you have attached at that time. Underneath is the front view proportions comparison of the GX1 compared to the K-S1.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the GX1 and K-S1 is 87 and 69 respectively.

Generally, it can be hard to picture the gap between sensor sizes only by going over specs. The pic below may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the GX1 and K-S1.

All in all, both of the cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The GX1 due to its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF more challenging and the Pentax K-S1 will deliver greater detail due to its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop photographs somewhat more aggressively. The more aged GX1 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.