Panasonic SZ1 vs Pentax 645Z

The following is a thorough comparison of the Panasonic SZ1 versus Pentax 645Z, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Pro DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a big gap among the resolutions of the SZ1 (16MP) and 645Z (51MP) and the SZ1 (1/2.3") and 645Z (Medium format) use totally different sensor sizing.

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The SZ1 was revealed 3 years earlier than the 645Z which is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic SZ1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax 645Z being a Large SLR camera.

Before we go straight into a full comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the SZ1 grades versus the 645Z in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1 and Pentax 645Z. The full galleries are available at Panasonic SZ1 Gallery and Pentax 645Z Gallery.

If you are planning to travel with your camera frequently, you're going to have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic SZ1 has exterior dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs) and the Pentax 645Z has dimensions of 156mm x 117mm x 123mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.8") accompanied by a weight of 1550 grams (3.42 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic SZ1 versus Pentax 645Z in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you choose at that time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the SZ1 and the 645Z.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ1 and 645Z is 95 and 49 respectively.

More often than not, it is very difficult to envision the gap in sensor dimensions only by viewing technical specs. The picture here might offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ1 and 645Z.

As you have seen, both of these cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The SZ1 with its smaller sensor will make achieving bokeh tougher and the Pentax 645Z will result in extra detail because of its extra 35 Megapixels. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The more aged SZ1 will be behind in sensor innovation.