Panasonic TS1 vs Pentax K-50

Following is a extended assessment of the Panasonic TS1 vs Pentax K-50, former is a Waterproof while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There is a sizable difference between the image resolutions of the TS1 (12MP) and K-50 (16MP) and the TS1 (1/2.3") and K-50 (APS-C) possess totally different sensor measurements.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The TS1 was unveiled 5 years before the K-50 which is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic TS1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-50 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving through a in depth comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the TS1 grades against the K-50 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS1 & Pentax K-50. The full galleries are available at Panasonic TS1 Gallery & Pentax K-50 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry around your camera regularly, you will have to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic TS1 features external measurements of 98mm x 63mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.5" x 0.9") having a weight of 189 grams (0.42 lbs) while the Pentax K-50 has proportions 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 TS1 vs Pentax K-50 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you use at the time. The following is the front view overall size comparison of the TS1 vs the K-50.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the TS1 and K-50 is 93 and 63 respectively.

Generally, it is very difficult to see the contrast between sensor sizes merely by reading a spec sheet. The picture underneath will help provide you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the TS1 and K-50.

As you can see, the two cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The TS1 with its tinier sensor will make getting shallow DOF more difficult and the Pentax K-50 will deliver extra detail having an extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots much more aggressively. The more aged TS1 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.