Panasonic ZS15 vs Pentax K100D

Here, we are looking at the Panasonic ZS15 versus Pentax K100D, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There is a big difference between the sensor resolutions of the ZS15 (12MP) and K100D (6MP) and the ZS15 (1/2.3") and K100D (APS-C) boast different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The ZS15 was introduced 5 years later than the K100D and that is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic ZS15 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K100D being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief view of how the ZS15 scores against the K100D in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS15 and Pentax K100D. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS15 Gallery and Pentax K100D Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera regularly, you need to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS15 enjoys exterior dimensions of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") having a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs) and the Pentax K100D has proportions of 129mm x 93mm x 70mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 2.8") along with a weight of 660 grams (1.46 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic ZS15 versus Pentax K100D in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have chosen during that time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the ZS15 compared to the K100D.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the ZS15 and K100D is 92 and 64 respectively.

Often, its hard to visualize the gap between sensor sizing purely by reviewing specifications. The visual underneath might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS15 and K100D.

To sum up, both the cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The ZS15 having a tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF tougher and the Panasonic ZS15 will offer you more detail using its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images way more aggressively. The more recent ZS15 should have a benefit in sensor tech.