Panasonic S1 vs Pentax K-500

Following is a extended analysis of the Panasonic S1 and Pentax K-500, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There is a substantial difference among the resolutions of the S1 (12MP) and K-500 (16MP) and the S1 (1/2.3") and K-500 (APS-C) posses totally different sensor sizing.

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The S1 was introduced 3 years before the K-500 which is a fairly big difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Panasonic S1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-500 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving right into a in-depth comparison, here is a short view of how the S1 matches up against the K-500 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S1 & Pentax K-500. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic S1 Gallery & Pentax K-500 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry around your camera regularly, you should take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic S1 enjoys physical measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs) while the Pentax K-500 has proportions of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") having a weight of 646 grams (1.42 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic S1 and Pentax K-500 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you select during that time. The following is a front view dimensions comparison of the S1 against the K-500.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the S1 and K-500 is 96 and 64 respectively.

Generally, it can be tough to see the gap in sensor sizes simply by seeing technical specs. The pic below will help give you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the S1 and K-500.

As you have seen, each of these cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The S1 with its smaller sensor will make getting bokeh tougher and the Pentax K-500 will produce extra detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images more aggressively. The more aged S1 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.