Panasonic SZ3 vs Pentax K10D

Here, we are reviewing the Panasonic SZ3 vs Pentax K10D, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Advanced DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a sizable gap among the resolutions of the SZ3 (16MP) and K10D (10MP) and the SZ3 (1/2.3") and K10D (APS-C) offer totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The SZ3 was launched 6 years later than the K10D and that is a fairly significant difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic SZ3 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K10D being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving right into a complete comparison, here is a concise overview of how the SZ3 scores versus the K10D in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3 & Pentax K10D. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic SZ3 Gallery & Pentax K10D Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry your camera often, you should factor its weight and size. The Panasonic SZ3 enjoys exterior dimensions of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs) while the Pentax K10D has specifications of 142mm x 101mm x 70mm (5.6" x 4.0" x 2.8") with a weight of 793 grams (1.75 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic SZ3 vs Pentax K10D in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you use at the time. Underneath is a front view measurements comparison of the SZ3 vs the K10D.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SZ3 and K10D is 96 and 59 respectively.

Normally, it is very difficult to see the gap in sensor sizing only by looking through specifications. The graphic here will give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ3 and K10D.

Plainly, both the cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The SZ3 due to its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field more difficult and the Panasonic SZ3 will provide you with more detail utilizing its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop pics way more aggressively. The more modern SZ3 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.