Panasonic ZS30 vs Pentax 645Z

Following is a extensive review of the Panasonic ZS30 and Pentax 645Z, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Pro DSLR by companies Panasonic and Pentax. There is a substantial difference between the resolutions of the ZS30 (18MP) and 645Z (51MP) and the ZS30 (1/2.3") and 645Z (Medium format) provide different sensor sizing.

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The ZS30 was brought out 15 months before the 645Z which makes them a generation away from each other. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic ZS30 being a Compact camera and the Pentax 645Z being a Large SLR camera.

Before getting into a detailed comparison, here is a short summary of how the ZS30 matches up versus the 645Z with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30 & Pentax 645Z. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS30 Gallery & Pentax 645Z Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry around your camera frequently, you'll have to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS30 features outer measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") along with a weight of 198 grams (0.44 lbs) whilst the Pentax 645Z has proportions of 156mm x 117mm x 123mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.8") with a weight of 1550 grams (3.42 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic ZS30 and Pentax 645Z in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you select at that time. Underneath is a front view dimensions comparison of the ZS30 against the 645Z.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the ZS30 and 645Z is 92 and 49 respectively.

Often, its tough to picture the contrast between sensor sizes simply by reviewing specifications. The pic below should provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the ZS30 and 645Z.

To sum up, each of these cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The ZS30 due to its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF tougher and the Pentax 645Z will offer extra detail having its extra 33MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The more aged ZS30 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.