Panasonic XS1 vs Pentax P70

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Panasonic XS1 vs Pentax P70, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Ultracompact by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a significant gap between the resolutions of the XS1 (16MP) and P70 (12MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The XS1 was announced 3 years later than the P70 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic XS1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax P70 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before we go straight into a detailed comparison, below is a simple summary of how the XS1 grades versus the P70 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1 and Pentax Optio P70. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic XS1 Gallery and Pentax P70 Gallery.

When you are intending to lug around your camera regularly, you'll have to take into account its weight and volume. The Panasonic XS1 has got physical dimensions of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") accompanied by a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs) and the Pentax P70 has sizing of 97mm x 54mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.1" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic XS1 vs Pentax P70 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have attached at that moment. Underneath is the front view physical size comparison of the XS1 versus the P70.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the XS1 and P70 is 97 and 95 respectively.

Typically, it can be difficult to see the difference between sensor measurements merely by going over a spec sheet. The visual below should give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the XS1 and P70.

Clearly, both cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same MP. You should count on the Panasonic XS1 to deliver extra detail with its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots far more aggressively. The newer XS1 will have an advantage in sensor technology.