Panasonic ZS3 vs Pentax K-7

Here, we are evaluating the Panasonic ZS3 vs Pentax K-7, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Advanced DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There is a considerable difference among the image resolutions of the ZS3 (10MP) and K-7 (15MP) and the ZS3 (1/2.3") and K-7 (APS-C) provide different sensor sizes.

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The ZS3 was announced 4 months prior to the K-7 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic ZS3 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-7 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go right into a complete comparison, here is a short highlight of how the ZS3 matches up versus the K-7 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 & Pentax K-7. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS3 Gallery & Pentax K-7 Gallery.

When you are going to carry your camera, you need to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS3 has physical measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Pentax K-7 has proportions of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") and a weight of 750 grams (1.65 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic ZS3 vs Pentax K-7 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have at the time. Here is a front view measurements comparison of the ZS3 compared to the K-7.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the ZS3 and K-7 is 91 and 60 respectively.

Often, it can be difficult to imagine the contrast in sensor sizing merely by looking through a spec sheet. The photograph here will give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS3 and K-7.

Clearly, both of the cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The ZS3 with its smaller sensor is going to make getting bokeh tougher and the Pentax K-7 will result in greater detail with its extra 5MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop pics a good deal more aggressively.