Panasonic L1 vs Pentax 645Z

Here, we are analyzing the Panasonic L1 versus Pentax 645Z, one being a Advanced DSLR and the other is a Pro DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a significant gap among the image resolutions of the L1 (7MP) and 645Z (51MP) and the L1 (Four Thirds) and 645Z (Medium format) offer totally different sensor size.

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The L1 was manufactured 8 years earlier than the 645Z and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic L1 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Pentax 645Z being a Large SLR camera.

Before we go into a more detailed comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the L1 scores vs the 645Z in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-L1 and Pentax 645Z. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic L1 Gallery and Pentax 645Z Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera often, you will want to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic L1 provides outer measurements of 146mm x 87mm x 77mm (5.7" x 3.4" x 3.0") accompanied by a weight of 606 grams (1.34 lbs) while the Pentax 645Z has measurements of 156mm x 117mm x 123mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.8") with a weight of 1550 grams (3.42 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic L1 versus Pentax 645Z in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you select at that moment. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the L1 compared to the 645Z.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the L1 and 645Z is 65 and 49 respectively.

Typically, it is hard to visualise the difference in sensor sizing only by going through a spec sheet. The photograph below might provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the L1 and 645Z.

Clearly, both the cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The L1 featuring a smaller sensor will make achieving bokeh harder and the Pentax 645Z will produce greater detail due to its extra 44 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop images a good deal more aggressively. The older L1 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.