Panasonic TS4 vs Pentax ist DL2

Here, we are looking at the Panasonic TS4 versus Pentax ist DL2, one being a Waterproof and the other is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There is a crucial difference among the resolutions of the TS4 (12MP) and ist DL2 (6MP) and the TS4 (1/2.3") and ist DL2 (APS-C) boast different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The TS4 was launched 6 years later than the ist DL2 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic TS4 being a Compact camera and the Pentax ist DL2 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before getting right into a full comparison, here is a simple summary of how the TS4 scores vs the ist DL2 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS4 and Pentax ist DL2. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic TS4 Gallery and Pentax ist DL2 Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera, you have to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic TS4 features exterior dimensions of 103mm x 64mm x 27mm (4.1" x 2.5" x 1.1") having a weight of 197 grams (0.43 lbs) whilst the Pentax ist DL2 has specifications of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") having a weight of 565 grams (1.25 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic TS4 versus Pentax ist DL2 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you choose during that time. Following is a front view proportions comparison of the TS4 against the ist DL2.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the TS4 and ist DL2 is 92 and 69 respectively.

Often, it is tough to picture the difference in sensor measurements only by looking through specs. The graphic underneath will give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the TS4 and ist DL2.

All in all, the 2 cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The TS4 due to its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF trickier and the Panasonic TS4 will render greater detail utilizing its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will help you crop images a good deal more aggressively. The younger TS4 provides an advantage in sensor innovation.