Panasonic LX3 vs Pentax K-S1

Following is a comprehensive overview of the Panasonic LX3 vs Pentax K-S1, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Advanced DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There is a significant difference between the sensor resolutions of the LX3 (10MP) and K-S1 (20MP) and the LX3 (1/1.63") and K-S1 (APS-C) use different sensor sizes.

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The LX3 was unveiled 6 years before the K-S1 which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic LX3 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-S1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple summation of how the LX3 grades vs the K-S1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 and Pentax K-S1. The full galleries are available at Panasonic LX3 Gallery and Pentax K-S1 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry around your camera, you'll need to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic LX3 comes with exterior measurements of 109mm x 60mm x 27mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs) while the Pentax K-S1 has specifications of 121mm x 93mm x 70mm (4.8" x 3.7" x 2.8") with a weight of 558 grams (1.23 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic LX3 vs Pentax K-S1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you choose during that time. The following is the front view dimensions comparison of the LX3 and the K-S1.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the LX3 and K-S1 is 91 and 69 respectively.

Usually, it can be difficult to imagine the difference between sensor sizes merely by reviewing specs. The image here will give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the LX3 and K-S1.

All in all, each of the cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The LX3 using its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field trickier and the Pentax K-S1 will offer you extra detail having an extra 10 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop pics far more aggressively. The more aged LX3 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.