Panasonic L1 vs Pentax K10D

Following is a extended analysis of the Panasonic L1 and Pentax K10D, both Advanced DSLR digital cameras by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a huge gap between the sensor resolutions of the L1 (7MP) and K10D (10MP) and the L1 (Four Thirds) and K10D (APS-C) provide totally different sensor sizing.

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The L1 was revealed 4 months after the K10D and they are of a similar generation. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Mid-size SLR).

Before diving straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a short overview of how the L1 grades against the K10D when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-L1 and Pentax K10D. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic L1 Gallery and Pentax K10D Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry around your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic L1 provides physical dimensions of 146mm x 87mm x 77mm (5.7" x 3.4" x 3.0") with a weight of 606 grams (1.34 lbs) while the Pentax K10D has measurements of 142mm x 101mm x 70mm (5.6" x 4.0" x 2.8") along with a weight of 793 grams (1.75 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic L1 and Pentax K10D in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have at the time. Here is a front view overall size comparison of the L1 vs the K10D.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the L1 and K10D is 65 and 59 respectively.

Normally, it is very difficult to see the difference between sensor sizes just by going over a spec sheet. The pic below will give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the L1 and K10D.

Clearly, both of the cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The L1 with its tinier sensor will make getting shallower DOF more difficult and the Pentax K10D will deliver more detail because of its extra 3MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop images a bit more aggressively.