Panasonic ZS15 vs Pentax K-01

In this write-up, we are comparing the Panasonic ZS15 and Pentax K-01, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a sizeable gap between the image resolutions of the ZS15 (12MP) and K-01 (16MP) and the ZS15 (1/2.3") and K-01 (APS-C) feature totally different sensor size.

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The ZS15 was launched at a similar time to the K-01 and they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZS15 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-01 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a short view of how the ZS15 scores against the K-01 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS15 and Pentax K-01. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic ZS15 Gallery and Pentax K-01 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS15 provides exterior measurements of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs) and the Pentax K-01 has proportions of 122mm x 79mm x 58mm (4.8" x 3.1" x 2.3") along with a weight of 561 grams (1.24 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic ZS15 and Pentax K-01 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are using at that moment. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the ZS15 compared to the K-01.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS15 and K-01 is 92 and 76 respectively.

Normally, its hard to envision the contrast between sensor sizing only by reviewing specifications. The visual here will help give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS15 and K-01.

To sum up, both the cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The ZS15 because of its tinier sensor will make shooting shallower DOF trickier and the Pentax K-01 will offer you extra detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop images far more aggressively.