Panasonic SZ5 vs Pentax K-r

In this write-up, we will be analyzing the Panasonic SZ5 versus Pentax K-r, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the SZ5 (14MP) and the K-r (12MP) is relatively similar but the SZ5 (1/2.3") and K-r (APS-C) feature totally different sensor dimensions.

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The SZ5 was released 17 months later than the K-r which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic SZ5 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-r being a Compact SLR camera.

Before going through a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple view of how the SZ5 grades against the K-r in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5 & Pentax K-r. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic SZ5 Gallery & Pentax K-r Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry your camera frequently, you'll need to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic SZ5 features exterior measurements of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs) and the Pentax K-r has sizing of 125mm x 97mm x 68mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 2.7") accompanied by a weight of 598 grams (1.32 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic SZ5 versus Pentax K-r in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are utilizing at the time. Underneath is the front view proportions comparison of the SZ5 and the K-r.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ5 and K-r is 95 and 67 respectively.

Oftentimes, its difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing only by reading a spec sheet. The visual below will provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ5 and K-r.

Clearly, both of those cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The SZ5 because of its tinier sensor will make achieving bokeh trickier and the Panasonic SZ5 will offer extra detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will let you crop photographs a little more aggressively. The younger SZ5 is going to have an advantage in sensor innovation.