Panasonic XS1 vs Pentax RZ18

Following is a thorough analysis of the Panasonic XS1 versus Pentax RZ18, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the XS1 (16MP) and the RZ18 (16MP) is fairly well matched and they feature the exact same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The XS1 was introduced 17 months after the RZ18 making the cameras a generation away from each other. Both the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving in to a thorough comparison, below is a concise summary of how the XS1 scores versus the RZ18 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1 & Pentax Optio RZ18. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic XS1 Gallery & Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry around your camera often, you have to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic XS1 enjoys outside 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) while the Pentax RZ18 has proportions of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic XS1 versus Pentax RZ18 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have attached at that moment. The following is the front view scale comparison of the XS1 against the RZ18.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the XS1 and RZ18 is 97 and 92 respectively.

Usually, its difficult to see the difference between sensor sizes just by checking a spec sheet. The picture underneath will offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the XS1 and RZ18.

As you can see, both of these cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements and the same exact MP therefore you can expect similar quality of photographs but you should factor the launch date of the products into consideration. The younger XS1 is going to have a benefit in sensor technology.