Panasonic ZS7 vs Pentax K-S1

Below, we will be evaluating the Panasonic ZS7 vs Pentax K-S1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a substantial gap between the sensor resolutions of the ZS7 (12MP) and K-S1 (20MP) and the ZS7 (1/2.3") and K-S1 (APS-C) feature totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The ZS7 was announced 4 years before the K-S1 which is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic ZS7 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-S1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before going through a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the ZS7 scores against the K-S1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS7 & Pentax K-S1. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS7 Gallery & Pentax K-S1 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to travel with your camera frequently, you will have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic ZS7 has got exterior measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 218 grams (0.48 lbs) and the Pentax K-S1 has dimensions of 121mm x 93mm x 70mm (4.8" x 3.7" x 2.8") with a weight of 558 grams (1.23 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic ZS7 vs Pentax K-S1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you have attached at that moment. Here is the front view measurements comparison of the ZS7 against the K-S1.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZS7 and K-S1 is 91 and 69 respectively.

Typically, it is tough to visualise the contrast between sensor dimensions merely by checking specs. The image underneath will give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS7 and K-S1.

All in all, both of those cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The ZS7 with its tinier sensor will make shooting shallower DOF trickier and the Pentax K-S1 will give extra detail with its extra 8MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The more aged ZS7 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.