Panasonic S3 vs Pentax 645D

Here, we will be matching up the Panasonic S3 versus Pentax 645D, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Pro DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There is a substantial difference among the sensor resolutions of the S3 (14MP) and 645D (40MP) and the S3 (1/2.3") and 645D (Medium format) posses different sensor size.

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The S3 was introduced 11 months later than the 645D and they are both of a similar age. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic S3 being a Compact camera and the Pentax 645D being a Large SLR camera.

Before going into a in depth comparison, here is a brief summation of how the S3 scores versus the 645D in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 & Pentax 645D. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic S3 Gallery & Pentax 645D Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera, you have to consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic S3 enjoys outer measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs) and the Pentax 645D has sizing of 156mm x 117mm x 119mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.7") with a weight of 1480 grams (3.26 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic S3 versus Pentax 645D in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you select at that time. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the S3 vs the 645D.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the S3 and 645D is 96 and 50 respectively.

Often, its tough to imagine the contrast in sensor sizing just by seeing technical specs. The visual underneath might offer you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the S3 and 645D.

As you have seen, each of these cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The S3 having a smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF more difficult and the Pentax 645D will provide more detail using its extra 26 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The younger S3 provides an advantage in sensor technology.