Panasonic TS30 vs Pentax ist DS2

In this article, we are evaluating the Panasonic TS30 vs Pentax ist DS2, one being a Waterproof and the other is a Advanced DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There is a sizeable difference among the sensor resolutions of the TS30 (16MP) and ist DS2 (6MP) and the TS30 (1/2.3") and ist DS2 (APS-C) possess different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The TS30 was launched 9 years later than the ist DS2 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic TS30 being a Compact camera and the Pentax ist DS2 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before going in to a thorough comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the TS30 scores against the ist DS2 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS30 and Pentax ist DS2. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic TS30 Gallery and Pentax ist DS2 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry your camera often, you are going to need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Panasonic TS30 features external measurements of 104mm x 58mm x 20mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) while the Pentax ist DS2 has measurements of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") with a weight of 605 grams (1.33 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic TS30 vs Pentax ist DS2 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have chosen at the time. Below is the front view measurement comparison of the TS30 and the ist DS2.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the TS30 and ist DS2 is 95 and 68 respectively.

Often, it is very hard to imagine the contrast in sensor sizing just by seeing specifications. The graphic below will give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the TS30 and ist DS2.

To sum up, both of those cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The TS30 due to its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field trickier and the Panasonic TS30 will show extra detail utilizing its extra 10 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos far more aggressively. The fresher TS30 provides an advantage in sensor tech.