Panasonic S3 vs Pentax E85

On this page, we are contrasting the Panasonic S3 and Pentax E85, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the S3 (14MP) and the E85 (12MP) is very comparable and both cameras have the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The S3 was introduced 16 months after the E85 making them a generation away from each other. The two cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting right into a complete comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the S3 grades against the E85 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 and Pentax Optio E85. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic S3 Gallery and Pentax E85 Gallery.

In case you're intending to travel with your camera often, you're going to have to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic S3 comes with external measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs) while the Pentax E85 has proportions of 93mm x 58mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.3" x 0.9") along with a weight of 145 grams (0.32 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic S3 and Pentax E85 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are utilising at that time. Underneath is a front view overall size comparison of the S3 compared to the E85.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the S3 and E85 is 96 and 95 respectively.

Generally, it's difficult to visualize the gap in sensor dimensions merely by checking out technical specs. The pic underneath will offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the S3 and E85.

As you can tell, both cameras have the same sensor dimensions but different resolution. You should expect to see the Panasonic S3 to show more detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop images a bit more aggressively. The more recent S3 provides a benefit in sensor technology.