Panasonic ZR3 vs Pentax K-01

Here is a complete assessment of the Panasonic ZR3 and Pentax K-01, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the ZR3 (14MP) and the K-01 (16MP) is very well matched but the ZR3 (1/2.3") and K-01 (APS-C) offer different sensor sizes.

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The ZR3 was manufactured 3 years prior to the K-01 and that is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic ZR3 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-01 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving right into a more detailed comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the ZR3 matches up versus the K-01 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3 & Pentax K-01. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZR3 Gallery & Pentax K-01 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry your camera, you should take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic ZR3 features exterior dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-01 has specifications of 122mm x 79mm x 58mm (4.8" x 3.1" x 2.3") and a weight of 561 grams (1.24 lbs).

See the Panasonic ZR3 and Pentax K-01 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the ZR3 vs the K-01.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the ZR3 and K-01 is 94 and 76 respectively.

Generally, it is hard to imagine the contrast between sensor sizing just by looking at technical specs. The visual underneath should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZR3 and K-01.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The ZR3 due to its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field harder and the Pentax K-01 will give you more detail due to its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop pics way more aggressively. The older ZR3 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.