Panasonic LZ30 vs Pentax K-01

Below is a in depth overview of the Panasonic LZ30 versus Pentax K-01, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the LZ30 (16MP) and the K-01 (16MP) is fairly similar but the LZ30 (1/2.3") and K-01 (APS-C) feature totally different sensor dimensions.

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The LZ30 was released 8 months later than the K-01 which means that they are both of a similar age. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic LZ30 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax K-01 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving through a in-depth comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the LZ30 matches up vs the K-01 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ30 & Pentax K-01. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic LZ30 Gallery & Pentax K-01 Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera regularly, you need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic LZ30 comes with outer dimensions of 124mm x 84mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 3.6") with a weight of 552 grams (1.22 lbs) and the Pentax K-01 has measurements of 122mm x 79mm x 58mm (4.8" x 3.1" x 2.3") along with a weight of 561 grams (1.24 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic LZ30 versus Pentax K-01 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you use at that time. Following is the front view size comparison of the LZ30 against the K-01.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the LZ30 and K-01 is 66 and 76 respectively.

More often than not, it is very difficult to envision the difference between sensor measurements simply by going over a spec sheet. The photograph underneath should give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the LZ30 and K-01.

Clearly, both of the cameras offer the same exact megapixel count but not the same sensor measurements. The LZ30 comes with the tinier sensor which is going to make obtaining shallower DOF harder. The younger LZ30 will have a benefit with regard to sensor tech.