Panasonic ZS30 vs Pentax S1

Below is a extensive analysis of the Panasonic ZS30 versus Pentax S1, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a large gap among the resolutions of the ZS30 (18MP) and S1 (14MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The ZS30 was manufactured 23 months later than the S1 which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving in to a full comparison, below is a concise summation of how the ZS30 matches up versus the S1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30 & Pentax Optio S1. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic ZS30 Gallery & Pentax S1 Gallery.

If you're intending to lug around your camera regularly, you're going to have to take into account its weight and proportions. 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) whilst the Pentax S1 has measurements of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic ZS30 versus Pentax S1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you use at that time. Here is the front view dimension comparison of the ZS30 and the S1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZS30 and S1 is 92 and 93 respectively.

Quite often, it can be hard to visualize the contrast in sensor measurements just by researching technical specs. The graphic here may provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS30 and S1.

As you can tell, both cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different megapixels. You can count on the Panasonic ZS30 to result in more detail due to its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The more modern ZS30 should have an advantage in sensor innovation.