Panasonic L1 vs Pentax K-3

In this article, we are comparing the Panasonic L1 vs Pentax K-3, both Advanced DSLR cameras by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There is a sizeable difference among the image resolutions of the L1 (7MP) and K-3 (24MP) and the L1 (Four Thirds) and K-3 (APS-C) possess totally different sensor size.

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The L1 was manufactured 8 years before the K-3 which is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Mid-size SLR).

Before diving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a concise summation of how the L1 grades against the K-3 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-L1 and Pentax K-3. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic L1 Gallery and Pentax K-3 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry around your camera regularly, you will want to factor its weight and proportions. The Panasonic L1 has exterior dimensions of 146mm x 87mm x 77mm (5.7" x 3.4" x 3.0") accompanied by a weight of 606 grams (1.34 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-3 has measurements of 131mm x 100mm x 77mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") and a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic L1 vs Pentax K-3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you select at that moment. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the L1 compared to the K-3.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the L1 and K-3 is 65 and 59 respectively.

Oftentimes, its hard to visualise the gap in sensor sizes merely by looking through technical specs. The pic here might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the L1 and K-3.

As you can tell, the two cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The L1 due to its smaller sensor will make shooting bokeh more challenging and the Pentax K-3 will result in greater detail due to its extra 17 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop photos a little more aggressively. The more aged L1 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.