Panasonic ZS20 vs Pentax K-1

Here is a in-depth overview of the Panasonic ZS20 vs Pentax K-1, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a substantial gap between the resolutions of the ZS20 (14MP) and K-1 (36MP) and the ZS20 (1/2.3") and K-1 (Full frame) boast totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The ZS20 was brought out 4 years prior to the K-1 and that is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Panasonic ZS20 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a brief summation of how the ZS20 matches up versus the K-1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 & Pentax K-1. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic ZS20 Gallery & Pentax K-1 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic ZS20 enjoys outer measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs) while the Pentax K-1 has measurements of 137mm x 110mm x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") accompanied by a weight of 1010 grams (2.23 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic ZS20 vs Pentax K-1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you choose at the time. The following is a front view measurements comparison of the ZS20 compared to the K-1.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZS20 and K-1 is 92 and 55 respectively.

Normally, it is very difficult to envision the difference between sensor sizing just by looking at a spec sheet. The graphic here will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS20 and K-1.

Clearly, both of these cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The ZS20 due to its tinier sensor will make getting shallow depth of field more difficult and the Pentax K-1 will give greater detail having its extra 22MP. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The older ZS20 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor tech.