Panasonic SZ3 vs Pentax K-1

On this page, we will be evaluating the Panasonic SZ3 versus Pentax K-1, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by companies Panasonic and Pentax. There is a big difference among the image resolutions of the SZ3 (16MP) and K-1 (36MP) and the SZ3 (1/2.3") and K-1 (Full frame) offer totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The SZ3 was announced 4 years earlier than the K-1 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Panasonic SZ3 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving straight to a thorough comparison, here is a concise summation of how the SZ3 matches up versus the K-1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3 and Pentax K-1. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic SZ3 Gallery and Pentax K-1 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry around your camera, you'll need to take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic SZ3 features outer measurements of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-1 has specifications of 137mm x 110mm x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") and a weight of 1010 grams (2.23 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic SZ3 versus Pentax K-1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have attached at that moment. Following is a front view measurements comparison of the SZ3 against the K-1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ3 and K-1 is 96 and 55 respectively.

In many cases, it's hard to see the difference in sensor sizes only by checking out a spec sheet. The image underneath might provide you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ3 and K-1.

As you can see, each of the cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The SZ3 having a smaller sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field tougher and the Pentax K-1 will show more detail with its extra 20 Megapixels. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots more aggressively. The more aged SZ3 will be behind in sensor technology.