Panasonic ZS8 vs Pentax K-01

Here is a in depth analysis of the Panasonic ZS8 and Pentax K-01, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the ZS8 (14MP) and the K-01 (16MP) is pretty close but the ZS8 (1/2.3") and K-01 (APS-C) possess totally different sensor size.

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The ZS8 was released 10 months prior to the K-01 and they are both of a similar age. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic ZS8 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-01 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving in to a detailed comparison, below is a simple summary of how the ZS8 matches up vs the K-01 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8 & Pentax K-01. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS8 Gallery & Pentax K-01 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera, you will want to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic ZS8 features external measurements of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") along with a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-01 has dimensions of 122mm x 79mm x 58mm (4.8" x 3.1" x 2.3") and a weight of 561 grams (1.24 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic ZS8 and Pentax K-01 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you use at that time. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the ZS8 versus the K-01.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the ZS8 and K-01 is 92 and 76 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very hard to visualise the difference in sensor sizing merely by researching technical specs. The photograph below will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the ZS8 and K-01.

As you have seen, both of those cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The ZS8 due to its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower DOF trickier and the Pentax K-01 will provide you with more detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop photographs somewhat more aggressively. The older ZS8 will be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.