Panasonic SZ7 vs Pentax ist DL2

Here is a complete overview of the Panasonic SZ7 vs Pentax ist DL2, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a large gap among the sensor resolutions of the SZ7 (14MP) and ist DL2 (6MP) and the SZ7 (1/2.3") and ist DL2 (APS-C) have different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The SZ7 was revealed 6 years later than the ist DL2 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic SZ7 being a Compact camera and the Pentax ist DL2 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go right into a in-depth comparison, here is a short summary of how the SZ7 grades vs the ist DL2 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7 & Pentax ist DL2. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic SZ7 Gallery & Pentax ist DL2 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry your camera regularly, you should factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic SZ7 has outer 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 ist DL2 has sizing of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") and a weight of 565 grams (1.25 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic SZ7 vs Pentax ist DL2 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are working with at that time. Following is a front view scale comparison of the SZ7 versus the ist DL2.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ7 and ist DL2 is 95 and 69 respectively.

Normally, it is tough to picture the gap in sensor sizing only by researching technical specs. The graphic here will give you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ7 and ist DL2.

As you have seen, each of the cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The SZ7 using its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF harder and the Panasonic SZ7 will render extra detail because of its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures more aggressively. The more recent SZ7 should have a benefit in sensor innovation.