Panasonic S3 vs Pentax K-3

Below, we are matching up the Panasonic S3 vs Pentax K-3, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Advanced DSLR by companies Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a noticeable gap between the resolutions of the S3 (14MP) and K-3 (24MP) and the S3 (1/2.3") and K-3 (APS-C) possess different sensor size.

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The S3 was revealed 4 years earlier than the K-3 which is quite a sizable difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic S3 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-3 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a concise summation of how the S3 matches up against the K-3 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 & Pentax K-3. The full galleries are available at Panasonic S3 Gallery & Pentax K-3 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry around your camera regularly, you'll have to consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic S3 enjoys exterior measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") along with a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs) while the Pentax K-3 has sizing of 131mm x 100mm x 77mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") and a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic S3 vs Pentax K-3 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are working with at that moment. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the S3 against the K-3.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the S3 and K-3 is 96 and 59 respectively.

More often than not, it is very difficult to visualize the difference between sensor sizes merely by reading specifications. The picture here should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the S3 and K-3.

To sum up, both of those cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The S3 using its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF harder and the Pentax K-3 will offer greater detail because of its extra 10 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop photos much more aggressively. The more aged S3 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.