Panasonic ZS30 vs Pentax K-50

Let's take a deeper look at the Panasonic ZS30 and Pentax K-50, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the ZS30 (18MP) and the K-50 (16MP) is relatively similar but the ZS30 (1/2.3") and K-50 (APS-C) boast different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The ZS30 was unveiled 10 months prior to the K-50 so they are both of a similar age. Both cameras have different body design with the Panasonic ZS30 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-50 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go right into a detailed comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the ZS30 scores versus the K-50 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30 & Pentax K-50. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS30 Gallery & Pentax K-50 Gallery.

When you are intending to lug around your camera often, you'll have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic ZS30 enjoys 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) and the Pentax K-50 has measurements of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") along with a weight of 650 grams (1.43 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic ZS30 and Pentax K-50 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are employing at that time. Below is a front view measurements comparison of the ZS30 vs the K-50.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZS30 and K-50 is 92 and 63 respectively.

Quite often, it is very difficult to imagine the gap between sensor measurements just by reading specifications. The photograph underneath will give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS30 and K-50.

Plainly, both of these cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The ZS30 with its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF more challenging and the Panasonic ZS30 will offer greater detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The older ZS30 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.