Panasonic L1 vs Pentax VS20

Its time to look a bit more in depth at the Panasonic L1 versus Pentax VS20, former is a Advanced DSLR while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There is a considerable difference among the sensor resolutions of the L1 (7MP) and VS20 (16MP) and the L1 (Four Thirds) and VS20 (1/2.3") possess totally different sensor sizing.

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The L1 was manufactured 5 years earlier than the VS20 which is a fairly large difference as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic L1 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Pentax VS20 being a Compact camera.

Before getting through a complete comparison, below is a short highlight of how the L1 scores versus the VS20 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-L1 & Pentax Optio VS20. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic L1 Gallery & Pentax VS20 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Panasonic L1 enjoys outside 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) while the Pentax VS20 has measurements of 111mm x 61mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 1.5") with a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic L1 versus Pentax VS20 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are employing during that time. Following is the front view measurement comparison of the L1 versus the VS20.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the L1 and VS20 is 65 and 90 respectively.

In many cases, it's difficult to see the gap in sensor sizes simply by seeing specifications. The pic here may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the L1 and VS20.

To sum up, each of the cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The L1 due to its bigger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF easier and the Pentax VS20 will provide more detail due to its extra 9MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop pictures far more aggressively. The more aged L1 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.