Panasonic SZ3 vs Pentax K-x

Here is a in depth review of the Panasonic SZ3 and Pentax K-x, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by companies Panasonic and Pentax. There is a significant difference among the resolutions of the SZ3 (16MP) and K-x (12MP) and the SZ3 (1/2.3") and K-x (APS-C) provide totally different sensor dimensions.

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The SZ3 was released 3 years later than the K-x and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic SZ3 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-x being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving into a full comparison, here is a quick summary of how the SZ3 grades against the K-x with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3 and Pentax K-x. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic SZ3 Gallery and Pentax K-x Gallery.

When you are intending to carry your camera often, you're going to have to factor its weight and volume. The Panasonic SZ3 comes with outer measurements of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-x has sizing of 123mm x 92mm x 68mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 2.7") along with a weight of 580 grams (1.28 lbs).

Check the Panasonic SZ3 and Pentax K-x in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are employing at that time. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the SZ3 vs the K-x.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ3 and K-x is 96 and 69 respectively.

Generally, it is hard to envision the contrast in sensor sizing merely by going through a spec sheet. The graphic underneath will give you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ3 and K-x.

Clearly, each of these cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The SZ3 because of its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower DOF more challenging and the Panasonic SZ3 will show extra detail as a result of its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos a good deal more aggressively. The younger SZ3 will have an advantage in sensor innovation.