Panasonic SZ8 vs Pentax 645Z

On this page, we will be reviewing the Panasonic SZ8 and Pentax 645Z, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Pro DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There is a sizable difference between the sensor resolutions of the SZ8 (16MP) and 645Z (51MP) and the SZ8 (1/2.3") and 645Z (Medium format) boast different sensor dimensions.

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The SZ8 was launched 3 months prior to the 645Z and they are of a similar age. Both cameras have different body design with the Panasonic SZ8 being a Compact camera and the Pentax 645Z being a Large SLR camera.

Before we go right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise overview of how the SZ8 scores against the 645Z when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 & Pentax 645Z. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic SZ8 Gallery & Pentax 645Z Gallery.

In case you're aiming to travel with your camera frequently, you need to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic SZ8 provides external measurements of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) and the Pentax 645Z has sizing of 156mm x 117mm x 123mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.8") accompanied by a weight of 1550 grams (3.42 lbs).

Check the Panasonic SZ8 and Pentax 645Z in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are employing at the time. Following is a front view physical size comparison of the SZ8 versus the 645Z.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ8 and 645Z is 94 and 49 respectively.

In many cases, it's difficult to visualize the difference between sensor dimensions purely by reviewing specs. The pic below will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ8 and 645Z.

As you can plainly see, each of the cameras have different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The SZ8 due to its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field harder and the Pentax 645Z will offer you greater detail utilizing its extra 35 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures a bit more aggressively.