Panasonic SZ5 vs Pentax K20D

Let's take a deeper look at the Panasonic SZ5 and Pentax K20D, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the SZ5 (14MP) and the K20D (15MP) is relatively well matched but the SZ5 (1/2.3") and K20D (APS-C) boast different sensor sizes.

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The SZ5 was manufactured 4 years after the K20D which is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic SZ5 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K20D being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before getting straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the SZ5 scores versus the K20D in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5 & Pentax K20D. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic SZ5 Gallery & Pentax K20D Gallery.

If you're planning to travel with your camera regularly, you will want to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic SZ5 features exterior dimensions of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs) and the Pentax K20D has sizing of 142mm x 101mm x 70mm (5.6" x 4.0" x 2.8") with a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic SZ5 and Pentax K20D in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have chosen at that moment. The following is a front view dimensions comparison of the SZ5 vs the K20D.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ5 and K20D is 95 and 59 respectively.

Usually, it can be hard to imagine the difference between sensor dimensions merely by looking at specifications. The image below will give you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ5 and K20D.

To sum up, both of these cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The SZ5 due to its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field trickier and the Pentax K20D will give you greater detail due to its extra 1MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop photographs more aggressively. The fresher SZ5 should have a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.