Panasonic ZS45 vs Pentax K-30

In this article, we will be analyzing the Panasonic ZS45 versus Pentax K-30, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the ZS45 (16MP) and the K-30 (16MP) is relatively comparable but the ZS45 (1/2.3") and K-30 (APS-C) come with different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The ZS45 was manufactured 2 years after the K-30 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZS45 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-30 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the ZS45 scores versus the K-30 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45 & Pentax K-30. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS45 Gallery & Pentax K-30 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to travel with your camera frequently, you are going to need to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS45 features external dimensions of 108mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 249 grams (0.55 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-30 has specifications of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") with a weight of 650 grams (1.43 lbs).

Check the Panasonic ZS45 versus Pentax K-30 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you choose during that time. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the ZS45 and the K-30.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the ZS45 and K-30 is 91 and 63 respectively.

In many cases, it can be difficult to picture the difference in sensor dimensions simply by going through specifications. The picture below will help give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS45 and K-30.

Plainly, each of the cameras enjoy the same exact resolution albeit different sensor dimensions. The ZS45 uses the smaller sensor which should make obtaining shallower depth of field trickier. The fresher ZS45 provides an edge in sensor technology.