Panasonic S3 vs Pentax K-S1

Following is a thorough review of the Panasonic S3 and Pentax K-S1, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a substantial gap among the image resolutions of the S3 (14MP) and K-S1 (20MP) and the S3 (1/2.3") and K-S1 (APS-C) possess totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The S3 was brought out 4 years prior to the K-S1 which is a fairly big difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic S3 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-S1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving in to a detailed comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the S3 scores against the K-S1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 & Pentax K-S1. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic S3 Gallery & Pentax K-S1 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry around your camera, you have to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic S3 enjoys exterior dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-S1 has specifications of 121mm x 93mm x 70mm (4.8" x 3.7" x 2.8") with a weight of 558 grams (1.23 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic S3 and Pentax K-S1 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you have attached at that time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the S3 against the K-S1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the S3 and K-S1 is 96 and 69 respectively.

Typically, it can be tough to see the difference in sensor sizes simply by researching specifications. The image underneath will help give you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the S3 and K-S1.

Plainly, the two cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The S3 featuring a smaller sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field tougher and the Pentax K-S1 will render greater detail having its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will help you crop pics a little more aggressively. The more aged S3 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.