Panasonic SZ1 vs Pentax P70

The following is a extensive review of the Panasonic SZ1 vs Pentax P70, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Ultracompact by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There is a significant difference among the image resolutions of the SZ1 (16MP) and P70 (12MP) but both cameras have the same sensor size (1/2.3").

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The SZ1 was revealed 2 years after the P70 which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Panasonic SZ1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax P70 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before going into a in depth comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the SZ1 scores versus the P70 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1 and Pentax Optio P70. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic SZ1 Gallery and Pentax P70 Gallery.

If you are going to travel with your camera often, you will have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic SZ1 features physical measurements 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 P70 has dimensions of 97mm x 54mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.1" x 0.9") having a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic SZ1 vs Pentax P70 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have attached at that moment. Below is a front view measurements comparison of the SZ1 versus the P70.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ1 and P70 is 95 and 95 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is hard to visualize the contrast in sensor dimensions purely by researching technical specs. The pic below might offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ1 and P70.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different megapixels. You should expect the Panasonic SZ1 to render extra detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop photographs more aggressively. The newer SZ1 should have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.