Panasonic LZ40 vs Pentax ist DS2

Lets take a deeper look at the Panasonic LZ40 versus Pentax ist DS2, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Advanced DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a big gap among the image resolutions of the LZ40 (20MP) and ist DS2 (6MP) and the LZ40 (1/2.3") and ist DS2 (APS-C) come with totally different sensor dimensions.

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The LZ40 was released 8 years later than the ist DS2 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic LZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax ist DS2 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before going straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the LZ40 grades vs the ist DS2 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ40 and Pentax ist DS2. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic LZ40 Gallery and Pentax ist DS2 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera, you need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic LZ40 offers external measurements of 126mm x 87mm x 94mm (5.0" x 3.4" x 3.7") and a weight of 524 grams (1.16 lbs) whilst the Pentax ist DS2 has dimensions of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") accompanied by a weight of 605 grams (1.33 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic LZ40 versus Pentax ist DS2 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have at that moment. The following is the front view sizing comparison of the LZ40 vs the ist DS2.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the LZ40 and ist DS2 is 67 and 68 respectively.

Typically, it's difficult to envision the gap in sensor sizing just by looking through specifications. The photograph below will help offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the LZ40 and ist DS2.

Plainly, each of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The LZ40 featuring a smaller sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field harder and the Panasonic LZ40 will render more detail as a result of its extra 14MP. Greater resolution will enable you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The more recent LZ40 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.