Panasonic ZS30 vs Pentax K-500

Below, we will be looking at the Panasonic ZS30 vs Pentax K-500, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the ZS30 (18MP) and the K-500 (16MP) is pretty similar but the ZS30 (1/2.3") and K-500 (APS-C) enjoy different sensor size.

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The ZS30 was revealed 10 months earlier than the K-500 and they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic ZS30 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-500 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving straight into a in depth comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the ZS30 scores versus the K-500 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30 and Pentax K-500. The full galleries are available at Panasonic ZS30 Gallery and Pentax K-500 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to travel with your camera, you will need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic ZS30 has got exterior measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 198 grams (0.44 lbs) while the Pentax K-500 has dimensions of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") along with a weight of 646 grams (1.42 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic ZS30 vs Pentax K-500 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you choose at that time. Below is the front view size comparison of the ZS30 and the K-500.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZS30 and K-500 is 92 and 64 respectively.

Quite often, it can be difficult to visualize the gap between sensor dimensions only by going over a spec sheet. The image here will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the ZS30 and K-500.

Clearly, both of the cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The ZS30 having a tinier sensor is going to make achieving bokeh tougher and the Panasonic ZS30 will deliver more detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop pictures much more aggressively. The more aged ZS30 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.