Panasonic TS3 vs Pentax K-500

On this page, we are matching up the Panasonic TS3 vs Pentax K-500, one is a Waterproof and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a big gap between the resolutions of the TS3 (12MP) and K-500 (16MP) and the TS3 (1/2.3") and K-500 (APS-C) posses totally different sensor sizing.

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The TS3 was manufactured 3 years prior to the K-500 which is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic TS3 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-500 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the TS3 scores vs the K-500 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS3 and Pentax K-500. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic TS3 Gallery and Pentax K-500 Gallery.

In case you're planning to travel with your camera, you will have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic TS3 provides outside measurements of 103mm x 64mm x 27mm (4.1" x 2.5" x 1.1") and a weight of 197 grams (0.43 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-500 has dimensions of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") with a weight of 646 grams (1.42 lbs).

See the Panasonic TS3 vs Pentax K-500 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you select during that time. The following is a front view sizing comparison of the TS3 and the K-500.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the TS3 and K-500 is 92 and 64 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to see the contrast between sensor dimensions only by checking a spec sheet. The pic below may provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the TS3 and K-500.

Clearly, both of the cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The TS3 due to its tinier sensor will make getting shallower DOF harder and the Pentax K-500 will give you greater detail due to its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop pics more aggressively. The more aged TS3 is going to be behind in sensor tech.