Panasonic XS1 vs Pentax K-S1

In this write-up, we will be analyzing the Panasonic XS1 and Pentax K-S1, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the XS1 (16MP) and the K-S1 (20MP) is pretty well matched but the XS1 (1/2.3") and K-S1 (APS-C) use totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The XS1 was released 19 months before the K-S1 which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. Both cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic XS1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-S1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go through a more detailed comparison, below is a concise summation of how the XS1 matches up versus the K-S1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1 and Pentax K-S1. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic XS1 Gallery and Pentax K-S1 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry around your camera, you will need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic XS1 provides physical measurements of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") accompanied by a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs) while the Pentax K-S1 has dimensions of 121mm x 93mm x 70mm (4.8" x 3.7" x 2.8") with a weight of 558 grams (1.23 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic XS1 and Pentax K-S1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you choose at that time. Here is the front view proportions comparison of the XS1 vs the K-S1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the XS1 and K-S1 is 97 and 69 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is difficult to envision the gap between sensor sizes merely by reading through technical specs. The picture below will help provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the XS1 and K-S1.

As you have seen, both of the cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The XS1 because of its tinier sensor will make shooting shallower DOF tougher and the Pentax K-S1 will resolve greater detail as a result of its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop pictures far more aggressively. The more aged XS1 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.