Panasonic TS30 vs Pentax 645Z

Here is a comprehensive analysis of the Panasonic TS30 versus Pentax 645Z, one being a Waterproof and the other is a Pro DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There is a huge difference among the sensor resolutions of the TS30 (16MP) and 645Z (51MP) and the TS30 (1/2.3") and 645Z (Medium format) come with different sensor sizing.

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The TS30 was released 9 months later than the 645Z which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic TS30 being a Compact camera and the Pentax 645Z being a Large SLR camera.

Before we go straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the TS30 scores versus the 645Z when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS30 and Pentax 645Z. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic TS30 Gallery and Pentax 645Z Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera, you'll have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic TS30 features physical dimensions of 104mm x 58mm x 20mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) while the Pentax 645Z has dimensions of 156mm x 117mm x 123mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.8") accompanied by a weight of 1550 grams (3.42 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic TS30 versus Pentax 645Z in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have attached at the time. Underneath is the front view physical size comparison of the TS30 and the 645Z.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the TS30 and 645Z is 95 and 49 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be tough to imagine the contrast in sensor sizing just by going through specs. The photograph below should give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the TS30 and 645Z.

As you can plainly see, each of the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The TS30 because of its smaller sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF more challenging and the Pentax 645Z will provide more detail as a result of its extra 35MP. Greater resolution will enable you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The more recent TS30 provides an advantage with regard to sensor technology.