Panasonic SZ1 vs Pentax KP

Here is a extended analysis of the Panasonic SZ1 versus Pentax KP, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a significant gap between the resolutions of the SZ1 (16MP) and KP (24MP) and the SZ1 (1/2.3") and KP (APS-C) provide totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The SZ1 was brought out 6 years prior to the KP and that is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Panasonic SZ1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax KP being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving into a in depth comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the SZ1 matches up vs the KP in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1 and Pentax KP. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic SZ1 Gallery and Pentax KP Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera often, you need to consider its weight and size. The Panasonic SZ1 enjoys external dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs) whilst the Pentax KP has specifications of 132mm x 101mm x 76mm (5.2" x 4.0" x 3.0") having a weight of 703 grams (1.55 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic SZ1 versus Pentax KP in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have chosen at that time. Below is a front view proportions comparison of the SZ1 against the KP.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ1 and KP is 95 and 61 respectively.

Quite often, it is difficult to visualise the difference between sensor sizing only by checking a spec sheet. The graphic here will help offer you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ1 and KP.

Clearly, both of those cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The SZ1 due to its tinier sensor will make getting shallower DOF harder and the Pentax KP will resolve greater detail having its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The older SZ1 is going to be behind in sensor innovation.