Panasonic S2 vs Pentax K-3

The following is a thorough overview of the Panasonic S2 versus Pentax K-3, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There is a significant difference between the image resolutions of the S2 (14MP) and K-3 (24MP) and the S2 (1/2.3") and K-3 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor dimensions.

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The S2 was unveiled 3 years earlier than the K-3 which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic S2 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-3 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a simple summary of how the S2 scores versus the K-3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 and Pentax K-3. The full galleries are available at Panasonic S2 Gallery and Pentax K-3 Gallery.

If you're going to travel with your camera, you need to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic S2 enjoys physical dimensions of 98mm x 57mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 112 grams (0.25 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-3 has proportions of 131mm x 100mm x 77mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") accompanied by a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

See the Panasonic S2 versus Pentax K-3 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are using at that moment. Underneath is a front view measurement comparison of the S2 against the K-3.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the S2 and K-3 is 96 and 59 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is hard to envision the gap between sensor dimensions simply by looking at a spec sheet. The picture here should offer you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the S2 and K-3.

As you can see, both cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The S2 using its tinier sensor will make achieving shallower DOF tougher and the Pentax K-3 will resolve extra detail having an extra 10MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots more aggressively. The more aged S2 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor technology.