Panasonic ZS3 vs Pentax K-x

In this article, we are evaluating the Panasonic ZS3 versus Pentax K-x, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by companies Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the ZS3 (10MP) and the K-x (12MP) is very close but the ZS3 (1/2.3") and K-x (APS-C) use totally different sensor measurements.

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The ZS3 was brought out 7 months prior to the K-x so they are of a similar generation. Both cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZS3 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-x being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the ZS3 matches up vs the K-x in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 and Pentax K-x. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS3 Gallery and Pentax K-x Gallery.

When you are aiming to travel with your camera, you have to consider its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS3 offers outer dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-x has specifications of 123mm x 92mm x 68mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 2.7") having a weight of 580 grams (1.28 lbs).

Check the Panasonic ZS3 versus Pentax K-x in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you use during that time. Following is the front view scale comparison of the ZS3 and the K-x.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the ZS3 and K-x is 91 and 69 respectively.

In many cases, it can be tough to visualise the gap in sensor dimensions purely by researching a spec sheet. The pic underneath should give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS3 and K-x.

As you can see, the 2 cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The ZS3 because of its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower DOF harder and the Pentax K-x will result in more detail having its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will let you crop pics far more aggressively. The more aged ZS3 will be behind in sensor technology.