Panasonic SZ8 vs Pentax K-1

Here, we will be matching up the Panasonic SZ8 versus Pentax K-1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a sizable gap between the resolutions of the SZ8 (16MP) and K-1 (36MP) and the SZ8 (1/2.3") and K-1 (Full frame) offer different sensor sizes.

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The SZ8 was unveiled 3 years earlier than the K-1 which is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic SZ8 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a short summation of how the SZ8 grades against the K-1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 & Pentax K-1. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic SZ8 Gallery & Pentax K-1 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry around your camera often, you have to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic SZ8 has exterior 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) whilst the Pentax K-1 has sizing of 137mm x 110mm x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") with a weight of 1010 grams (2.23 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic SZ8 versus Pentax K-1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are employing during that time. Below is a front view scale comparison of the SZ8 against the K-1.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SZ8 and K-1 is 94 and 55 respectively.

Normally, it is very tough to picture the gap between sensor sizes only by checking technical specs. The pic underneath should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ8 and K-1.

As you can tell, both the cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The SZ8 using its tinier sensor is going to make achieving bokeh harder and the Pentax K-1 will resolve extra detail having an extra 20 Megapixels. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The more aged SZ8 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.