Panasonic ZS30 vs Pentax RS1500

In this article, we will be looking at the Panasonic ZS30 and Pentax RS1500, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There is a significant difference among the image resolutions of the ZS30 (18MP) and RS1500 (14MP) but they use the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The ZS30 was manufactured 23 months later than the RS1500 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a more detailed comparison, below is a short introduction of how the ZS30 grades against the RS1500 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30 and Pentax Optio RS1500. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS30 Gallery and Pentax RS1500 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera regularly, you are going to need to consider its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS30 enjoys outer measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 198 grams (0.44 lbs) while the Pentax RS1500 has specifications of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic ZS30 and Pentax RS1500 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you select during that time. Following is the front view scale comparison of the ZS30 compared to the RS1500.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the ZS30 and RS1500 is 92 and 93 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be tough to envision the difference in sensor sizing purely by viewing technical specs. The photograph underneath may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the ZS30 and RS1500.

As you have seen, the two cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same megapixels. You should count on the Panasonic ZS30 to result in extra detail due to its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will enable you to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The more modern ZS30 is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.