Panasonic S2 vs Pentax K-x

On this page, we are evaluating the Panasonic S2 and Pentax K-x, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the S2 (14MP) and the K-x (12MP) is very well matched but the S2 (1/2.3") and K-x (APS-C) have different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The S2 was released 2 years later than the K-x and that is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic S2 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-x being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving into a in depth comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the S2 scores against the K-x in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 & Pentax K-x. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic S2 Gallery & Pentax K-x Gallery.

When you are intending to carry your camera regularly, you're going to have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic S2 provides exterior measurements of 98mm x 57mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") with a weight of 112 grams (0.25 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-x has dimensions of 123mm x 92mm x 68mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 2.7") accompanied by a weight of 580 grams (1.28 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic S2 and Pentax K-x in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are utilising at that time. Below is a front view measurements comparison of the S2 against the K-x.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the S2 and K-x is 96 and 69 respectively.

In many cases, it's hard to picture the gap between sensor sizing just by reading through specifications. The photograph underneath may give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the S2 and K-x.

To sum up, each of the cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The S2 featuring a tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF harder and the Panasonic S2 will give you greater detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop images a bit more aggressively. The more modern S2 should have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.