Panasonic ZS30 vs Pentax K-1

Here, we will be looking at the Panasonic ZS30 and Pentax K-1, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a huge gap between the image resolutions of the ZS30 (18MP) and K-1 (36MP) and the ZS30 (1/2.3") and K-1 (Full frame) boast different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The ZS30 was revealed 4 years before the K-1 which is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic ZS30 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick overview of how the ZS30 scores vs the K-1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30 and Pentax K-1. The full galleries are available at Panasonic ZS30 Gallery and Pentax K-1 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to travel with your camera often, you'll need to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic ZS30 provides external dimensions of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 198 grams (0.44 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-1 has measurements of 137mm x 110mm x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") and a weight of 1010 grams (2.23 lbs).

Check the Panasonic ZS30 and Pentax K-1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you use during that time. Below is a front view dimensions comparison of the ZS30 versus the K-1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZS30 and K-1 is 92 and 55 respectively.

More often than not, it is tough to imagine the contrast between sensor dimensions purely by looking at technical specs. The picture underneath might provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZS30 and K-1.

As you can tell, both cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The ZS30 with its tinier sensor is going to make shooting bokeh trickier and the Pentax K-1 will resolve greater detail because of its extra 18 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots way more aggressively. The more aged ZS30 is going to be behind in sensor innovation.