Panasonic ZR1 vs Pentax K-1

On this page, we will be evaluating the Panasonic ZR1 vs Pentax K-1, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There is a big difference among the image resolutions of the ZR1 (12MP) and K-1 (36MP) and the ZR1 (1/2.3") and K-1 (Full frame) provide different sensor measurements.

Photobucket discusses licensing 13 billion images with AI firms

The ZR1 was introduced 7 years earlier than the K-1 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic ZR1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving straight to a detailed comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the ZR1 matches up versus the K-1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1 and Pentax K-1. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic ZR1 Gallery and Pentax K-1 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to carry your camera regularly, you will want to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic ZR1 comes with external dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") and a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-1 has measurements of 137mm x 110mm x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") and a weight of 1010 grams (2.23 lbs).

See the Panasonic ZR1 vs Pentax K-1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you select during that time. The following is a front view sizing comparison of the ZR1 and the K-1.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the ZR1 and K-1 is 94 and 55 respectively.

Generally, it can be hard to picture the difference in sensor sizing simply by viewing specs. The photograph below may offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZR1 and K-1.

All in all, both the cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The ZR1 using its smaller sensor is going to make shooting bokeh more difficult and the Pentax K-1 will result in extra detail using its extra 24 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The older ZR1 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.