Panasonic ZS5 vs Pentax K-x

Here, we will be evaluating the Panasonic ZS5 versus Pentax K-x, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the ZS5 (12MP) and the K-x (12MP) is pretty close but the ZS5 (1/2.3") and K-x (APS-C) have different sensor dimensions.

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The ZS5 was launched 6 months after the K-x which means that they are of a similar generation. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic ZS5 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-x being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving right into a detailed comparison, here is a brief overview of how the ZS5 grades vs the K-x with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5 and Pentax K-x. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS5 Gallery and Pentax K-x Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry around your camera, you're going to have to consider its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS5 has external dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs) and the Pentax K-x has specifications of 123mm x 92mm x 68mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 2.7") having a weight of 580 grams (1.28 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic ZS5 versus Pentax K-x in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have chosen during that time. Following is a front view proportions comparison of the ZS5 against the K-x.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the ZS5 and K-x is 92 and 69 respectively.

More often than not, it's hard to imagine the gap in sensor sizes simply by viewing technical specs. The image underneath might offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS5 and K-x.

As you can tell, both of those cameras feature the identical megapixels albeit different sensor sizes. The ZS5 includes the smaller sensor which should make obtaining shallower depth of field harder.