Panasonic TS20 vs Pentax K-S1

Following is a in depth comparison of the Panasonic TS20 vs Pentax K-S1, former is a Waterproof while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the TS20 (16MP) and the K-S1 (20MP) is relatively close but the TS20 (1/2.3") and K-S1 (APS-C) enjoy totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The TS20 was manufactured 3 years before the K-S1 which is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic TS20 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-S1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before going straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the TS20 grades against the K-S1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS20 & Pentax K-S1. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic TS20 Gallery & Pentax K-S1 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry around your camera frequently, you should factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic TS20 comes with external measurements of 101mm x 58mm x 19mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") with a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) while the Pentax K-S1 has proportions of 121mm x 93mm x 70mm (4.8" x 3.7" x 2.8") with a weight of 558 grams (1.23 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic TS20 vs Pentax K-S1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have during that time. The following is the front view dimension comparison of the TS20 versus the K-S1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the TS20 and K-S1 is 95 and 69 respectively.

Sometimes, it's difficult to see the contrast in sensor sizes purely by looking through specs. The pic below might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the TS20 and K-S1.

As you can plainly see, both of those cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The TS20 because of its smaller sensor will make shooting shallow DOF more challenging and the Pentax K-S1 will render greater detail due to its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The more aged TS20 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.