Panasonic S3 vs Pentax K-r

Here is a detailed overview of the Panasonic S3 vs Pentax K-r, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the S3 (14MP) and the K-r (12MP) is relatively comparable but the S3 (1/2.3") and K-r (APS-C) possess different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The S3 was brought out 2 months earlier than the K-r so they are both of a similar age. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic S3 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-r being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving through a in-depth comparison, below is a brief view of how the S3 grades vs the K-r for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 & Pentax K-r. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic S3 Gallery & Pentax K-r Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera regularly, you will need to consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic S3 provides exterior dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs) and the Pentax K-r has sizing of 125mm x 97mm x 68mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 2.7") having a weight of 598 grams (1.32 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic S3 vs Pentax K-r in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you choose at the time. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the S3 against the K-r.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the S3 and K-r is 96 and 67 respectively.

In many cases, it's tough to visualize the gap in sensor sizing simply by seeing technical specs. The visual here will offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the S3 and K-r.

As you can tell, both the cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The S3 due to its smaller sensor is going to make shooting bokeh tougher and the Panasonic S3 will provide extra detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will let you crop photographs somewhat more aggressively.