Panasonic SZ8 vs Pentax K-30

Following is a comprehensive analysis of the Panasonic SZ8 vs Pentax K-30, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the SZ8 (16MP) and the K-30 (16MP) is relatively well matched but the SZ8 (1/2.3") and K-30 (APS-C) have different sensor sizes.

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The SZ8 was launched 15 months after the K-30 which makes them a generation away from one another. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic SZ8 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-30 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving right into a full comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the SZ8 scores versus the K-30 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 and Pentax K-30. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic SZ8 Gallery and Pentax K-30 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry around your camera often, you'll need to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic SZ8 features exterior dimensions of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") and a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-30 has sizing of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") and a weight of 650 grams (1.43 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic SZ8 vs Pentax K-30 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are working with during that time. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the SZ8 versus the K-30.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SZ8 and K-30 is 94 and 63 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes only by reading through a spec sheet. The pic underneath will give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ8 and K-30.

As you can see, both of these cameras provide the same megapixel count albeit different sensor sizes. The SZ8 includes the tinier sensor which should make achieving shallower depth of field trickier. The fresher SZ8 provides a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.