Panasonic SZ8 vs Pentax K-50

Lets look a bit more closely at the Panasonic SZ8 and Pentax K-50, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the SZ8 (16MP) and the K-50 (16MP) is relatively similar but the SZ8 (1/2.3") and K-50 (APS-C) have different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The SZ8 was announced 2 months later than the K-50 which means that they are both of a similar age. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic SZ8 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-50 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving into a more detailed comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the SZ8 matches up vs the K-50 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 & Pentax K-50. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic SZ8 Gallery & Pentax K-50 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry your camera often, you will have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic SZ8 enjoys outside dimensions of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-50 has dimensions of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") having a weight of 650 grams (1.43 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic SZ8 and Pentax K-50 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you choose at the time. Below is a front view overall size comparison of the SZ8 vs the K-50.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SZ8 and K-50 is 94 and 63 respectively.

Typically, it can be difficult to visualize the difference between sensor sizing only by reading specs. The graphic here will give you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ8 and K-50.

All in all, the 2 cameras come with the identical megapixel count albeit different sensor sizing. The SZ8 comes with the tinier sensor which is going to make obtaining bokeh more difficult.