Panasonic ZS1 vs Pentax K-1 II

In this article, we will be reviewing the Panasonic ZS1 vs Pentax K-1 II, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There is a noticeable difference among the image resolutions of the ZS1 (10MP) and K-1 II (36MP) and the ZS1 (1/2.5") and K-1 II (Full frame) feature different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The ZS1 was launched 9 years prior to the K-1 II and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZS1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-1 II being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving straight into a detailed comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the ZS1 matches up against the K-1 II with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1 & Pentax K-1 Mark II. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic ZS1 Gallery & Pentax K-1 II Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry your camera, you're going to have to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic ZS1 enjoys exterior dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Pentax K-1 II has sizing of 137mm x 110mm x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") along with a weight of 1010 grams (2.23 lbs).

Check the Panasonic ZS1 vs Pentax K-1 II in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Following is the front view size comparison of the ZS1 versus the K-1 II.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the ZS1 and K-1 II is 91 and 55 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to imagine the difference in sensor sizing only by checking out specs. The visual underneath may offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS1 and K-1 II.

All in all, both of the cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The ZS1 featuring a smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF trickier and the Pentax K-1 II will show greater detail utilizing its extra 26 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots far more aggressively. The older ZS1 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.