Panasonic ZS1 vs Pentax K-r

On this page, we are contrasting the Panasonic ZS1 and Pentax K-r, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the ZS1 (10MP) and the K-r (12MP) is very well matched but the ZS1 (1/2.5") and K-r (APS-C) boast different sensor sizes.

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The ZS1 was revealed 22 months before the K-r making them a generation apart from one another. Both the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic ZS1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-r being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the ZS1 scores versus the K-r with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1 and Pentax K-r. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS1 Gallery and Pentax K-r Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry your camera, you'll need to factor its weight and volume. The Panasonic ZS1 has got outside measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Pentax K-r has sizing of 125mm x 97mm x 68mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 2.7") with a weight of 598 grams (1.32 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic ZS1 and Pentax K-r in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Underneath is a front view measurement comparison of the ZS1 and the K-r.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS1 and K-r is 91 and 67 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to visualize the difference between sensor sizing simply by reading through specs. The graphic below may give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS1 and K-r.

All in all, both of these cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The ZS1 with its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field harder and the Pentax K-r will give greater detail because of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos a bit more aggressively. The older ZS1 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.