Panasonic ZS5 vs Pentax K100D

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Panasonic ZS5 versus Pentax K100D, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a big gap between the image resolutions of the ZS5 (12MP) and K100D (6MP) and the ZS5 (1/2.3") and K100D (APS-C) come with different sensor sizing.

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The ZS5 was unveiled 3 years later than the K100D and that is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZS5 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K100D being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving in to a in depth comparison, below is a quick overview of how the ZS5 matches up against the K100D with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5 and Pentax K100D. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS5 Gallery and Pentax K100D Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera often, you will have to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS5 comes with exterior measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs) whilst the Pentax K100D has proportions of 129mm x 93mm x 70mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 2.8") along with a weight of 660 grams (1.46 lbs).

See the Panasonic ZS5 versus Pentax K100D in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have attached at that time. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the ZS5 against the K100D.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the ZS5 and K100D is 92 and 64 respectively.

Typically, it's tough to visualize the contrast between sensor measurements purely by going over technical specs. The graphic here may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS5 and K100D.

As you have seen, each of these cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The ZS5 using its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field more difficult and the Panasonic ZS5 will offer you extra detail having an extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop shots far more aggressively. The more modern ZS5 should have an edge with regard to sensor technology.