Panasonic ZR1 vs Pentax K100D

On this page, we will be reviewing the Panasonic ZR1 versus Pentax K100D, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a crucial gap between the resolutions of the ZR1 (12MP) and K100D (6MP) and the ZR1 (1/2.3") and K100D (APS-C) boast totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The ZR1 was released 2 years later than the K100D and that is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic ZR1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K100D being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go into a in-depth comparison, here is a short introduction of how the ZR1 grades vs the K100D in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1 and Pentax K100D. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZR1 Gallery and Pentax K100D Gallery.

If you're looking to lug around your camera, you have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic ZR1 features external dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") with a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs) and the Pentax K100D has dimensions of 129mm x 93mm x 70mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 660 grams (1.46 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic ZR1 versus Pentax K100D in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Underneath is a front view measurement comparison of the ZR1 versus the K100D.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZR1 and K100D is 94 and 64 respectively.

More often than not, its difficult to visualise the difference between sensor measurements simply by reviewing specs. The graphic below should provide you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the ZR1 and K100D.

All in all, both cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The ZR1 due to its tinier sensor will make shooting bokeh more challenging and the Panasonic ZR1 will offer extra detail as a result of its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop shots more aggressively. The more modern ZR1 is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.