Panasonic ZS100 vs Pentax K-S1

In this write-up, we are evaluating the Panasonic ZS100 vs Pentax K-S1, former being a Large Sensor Compact while the other is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the ZS100 (20MP) and the K-S1 (20MP) is fairly similar but the ZS100 (1") and K-S1 (APS-C) feature totally different sensor sizes.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The ZS100 was released 17 months later than the K-S1 making the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZS100 being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Pentax K-S1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving straight into a full comparison, below is a quick summation of how the ZS100 scores against the K-S1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS100 & Pentax K-S1. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic ZS100 Gallery & Pentax K-S1 Gallery.

For those who are planning to lug around your camera regularly, you'll have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic ZS100 has got external dimensions of 111mm x 65mm x 44mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.7") with a weight of 312 grams (0.69 lbs) while the Pentax K-S1 has dimensions of 121mm x 93mm x 70mm (4.8" x 3.7" x 2.8") with a weight of 558 grams (1.23 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic ZS100 vs Pentax K-S1 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are utilising during that time. Underneath is the front view proportions comparison of the ZS100 and the K-S1.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the ZS100 and K-S1 is 87 and 69 respectively.

Normally, its difficult to see the difference between sensor measurements merely by reviewing specifications. The visual below should offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS100 and K-S1.

Plainly, both of the cameras offer the same exact megapixel count but not the same sensor measurements. The ZS100 uses the tinier sensor which will make getting shallow depth of field more challenging. The younger ZS100 is going to have an advantage in sensor technology.