Panasonic SZ7 vs Pentax K-01

Below, we are evaluating the Panasonic SZ7 and Pentax K-01, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the SZ7 (14MP) and the K-01 (16MP) is fairly similar but the SZ7 (1/2.3") and K-01 (APS-C) feature totally different sensor sizes.

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The SZ7 was released 4 months before the K-01 which means that they are of a similar generation. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic SZ7 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-01 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before going in to a in-depth comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the SZ7 grades vs the K-01 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7 and Pentax K-01. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic SZ7 Gallery and Pentax K-01 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to travel with your camera, you will want to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic SZ7 enjoys outside measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 133 grams (0.29 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-01 has specifications of 122mm x 79mm x 58mm (4.8" x 3.1" x 2.3") with a weight of 561 grams (1.24 lbs).

Check the Panasonic SZ7 and Pentax K-01 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are employing at that time. Here is the front view sizing comparison of the SZ7 compared to the K-01.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ7 and K-01 is 95 and 76 respectively.

Typically, it's difficult to visualise the difference between sensor dimensions simply by going over a spec sheet. The image below should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ7 and K-01.

As you can see, both of those cameras have got different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The SZ7 featuring a tinier sensor will make achieving shallow DOF trickier and the Pentax K-01 will offer more detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop images much more aggressively.