Panasonic S1 vs Pentax 645Z

Here is a comprehensive analysis of the Panasonic S1 and Pentax 645Z, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Pro DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a substantial gap among the resolutions of the S1 (12MP) and 645Z (51MP) and the S1 (1/2.3") and 645Z (Medium format) use different sensor measurements.

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The S1 was introduced 4 years earlier than the 645Z and that is a fairly big difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic S1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax 645Z being a Large SLR camera.

Before delving straight into a in depth comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the S1 grades versus the 645Z for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S1 & Pentax 645Z. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic S1 Gallery & Pentax 645Z Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera frequently, you have to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic S1 provides physical measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs) whilst the Pentax 645Z has specifications of 156mm x 117mm x 123mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.8") having a weight of 1550 grams (3.42 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic S1 and Pentax 645Z in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have at the time. Here is the front view overall size comparison of the S1 vs the 645Z.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the S1 and 645Z is 96 and 49 respectively.

Typically, its tough to visualize the gap in sensor sizing just by looking through a spec sheet. The visual underneath will offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the S1 and 645Z.

Clearly, both of the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The S1 with its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field more difficult and the Pentax 645Z will render extra detail using its extra 39 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures a little more aggressively. The older S1 will be behind in sensor innovation.