Panasonic S1 vs Pentax 645D

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Panasonic S1 versus Pentax 645D, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Pro DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There is a significant difference between the resolutions of the S1 (12MP) and 645D (40MP) and the S1 (1/2.3") and 645D (Medium format) possess different sensor size.

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The S1 was unveiled 11 months later than the 645D which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic S1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax 645D being a Large SLR camera.

Before getting in to a in-depth comparison, below is a short summary of how the S1 scores versus the 645D in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S1 and Pentax 645D. The full galleries are available at Panasonic S1 Gallery and Pentax 645D Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera frequently, you'll have to consider its weight and size. The Panasonic S1 comes with exterior dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") along with a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs) whilst the Pentax 645D has specifications of 156mm x 117mm x 119mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.7") having a weight of 1480 grams (3.26 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic S1 versus Pentax 645D in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are employing at that moment. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the S1 compared to the 645D.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the S1 and 645D is 96 and 50 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be difficult to picture the contrast between sensor measurements just by reviewing specifications. The photograph here will provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the S1 and 645D.

Plainly, the 2 cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The S1 using its tinier sensor is going to make shooting bokeh more difficult and the Pentax 645D will offer you more detail having an extra 28MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots a little more aggressively. The fresher S1 should have an advantage in sensor innovation.