Panasonic XS1 vs Pentax K-30

Here, we are matching up the Panasonic XS1 vs Pentax K-30, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the XS1 (16MP) and the K-30 (16MP) is fairly comparable but the XS1 (1/2.3") and K-30 (APS-C) provide different sensor measurements.

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The XS1 was introduced 3 months later than the K-30 which means that they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic XS1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-30 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before getting right into a detailed comparison, here is a simple overview of how the XS1 scores against the K-30 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1 and Pentax K-30. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic XS1 Gallery and Pentax K-30 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry your camera regularly, you need to take into account its weight and volume. The Panasonic XS1 has exterior dimensions of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") along with a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-30 has sizing of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") along with a weight of 650 grams (1.43 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic XS1 vs Pentax K-30 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have at the time. Below is a front view overall size comparison of the XS1 compared to the K-30.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the XS1 and K-30 is 97 and 63 respectively.

More often than not, it's difficult to picture the contrast in sensor sizing just by going through specs. The graphic here might provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the XS1 and K-30.

All in all, both of the cameras come with the identical megapixel count but different sensor sizing. The XS1 offers the smaller sensor which will make achieving shallow depth of field more challenging.