Panasonic ZS1 vs Pentax K-x

Below is a extended overview of the Panasonic ZS1 versus Pentax K-x, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the ZS1 (10MP) and the K-x (12MP) is fairly close but the ZS1 (1/2.5") and K-x (APS-C) boast totally different sensor sizing.

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The ZS1 was introduced 7 months earlier than the K-x which means that they are both of a similar age. Both the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic ZS1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-x being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting into a detailed comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the ZS1 matches up against the K-x in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1 & Pentax K-x. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS1 Gallery & Pentax K-x Gallery.

When you are planning to lug around your camera regularly, you will want to take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS1 offers exterior measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Pentax K-x has specifications of 123mm x 92mm x 68mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 2.7") accompanied by a weight of 580 grams (1.28 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic ZS1 versus Pentax K-x in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you have during that time. Underneath is a front view proportions comparison of the ZS1 vs the K-x.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the ZS1 and K-x is 91 and 69 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to envision the contrast in sensor measurements simply by researching specifications. The visual below may provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS1 and K-x.

Plainly, both of the cameras have different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The ZS1 having a smaller sensor will make getting shallow DOF more challenging and the Pentax K-x will result in extra detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop photos a bit more aggressively. The older ZS1 will be disadvantaged in sensor technology.