Panasonic TS2 vs Pentax K-500

Following is a extended assessment of the Panasonic TS2 versus Pentax K-500, one is a Waterproof and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the TS2 (14MP) and the K-500 (16MP) is fairly comparable but the TS2 (1/2.3") and K-500 (APS-C) possess totally different sensor dimensions.

Meta to Introduce 'AI-Generated' Labels for Media starting next month

The TS2 was introduced 4 years earlier than the K-500 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic TS2 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-500 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving in to a detailed comparison, below is a simple view of how the TS2 matches up against the K-500 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS2 and Pentax K-500. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic TS2 Gallery and Pentax K-500 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you'll need to take into account its weight and volume. The Panasonic TS2 offers physical dimensions of 99mm x 63mm x 24mm (3.9" x 2.5" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 188 grams (0.41 lbs) and the Pentax K-500 has sizing of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") having a weight of 646 grams (1.42 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic TS2 versus Pentax K-500 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Underneath is the front view over all size comparison of the TS2 vs the K-500.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the TS2 and K-500 is 93 and 64 respectively.

Generally, its difficult to envision the gap in sensor sizes only by seeing technical specs. The image below might offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the TS2 and K-500.

As you have seen, both the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The TS2 using its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower DOF trickier and the Pentax K-500 will produce greater detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The more aged TS2 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.