Panasonic S3 vs Pentax MX-1

Below is a extended analysis of the Panasonic S3 and Pentax MX-1, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by companies Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the S3 (14MP) and the MX-1 (12MP) is relatively close but the S3 (1/2.3") and MX-1 (1/1.7") use totally different sensor sizing.

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The S3 was launched 3 years earlier than the MX-1 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a comprehensive comparison, below is a short summary of how the S3 matches up against the MX-1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 and Pentax MX-1. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic S3 Gallery and Pentax MX-1 Gallery.

In case you're looking to lug around your camera regularly, you have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic S3 has got external measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs) while the Pentax MX-1 has dimensions of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") with a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic S3 and Pentax MX-1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are employing at that moment. Here is the front view measurements comparison of the S3 compared to the MX-1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S3 and MX-1 is 96 and 84 respectively.

Normally, it is hard to envision the contrast in sensor measurements only by looking through a spec sheet. The graphic here should give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the S3 and MX-1.

As you can see, the two cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The S3 due to its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower DOF more difficult and the Panasonic S3 will provide you with extra detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop pictures much more aggressively. The older S3 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.