Panasonic ZS8 vs Pentax K-30

In this write-up, we will be reviewing the Panasonic ZS8 vs 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 ZS8 (14MP) and the K-30 (16MP) is pretty similar but the ZS8 (1/2.3") and K-30 (APS-C) enjoy different sensor dimensions.

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The ZS8 was brought out 15 months before the K-30 which makes the cameras a generation away from one another. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZS8 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-30 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a brief summary of how the ZS8 scores versus the K-30 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8 & Pentax K-30. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS8 Gallery & Pentax K-30 Gallery.

If you are going to carry around your camera, you will need to consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic ZS8 has got outer measurements of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs) and the Pentax K-30 has sizing of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 650 grams (1.43 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic ZS8 vs Pentax K-30 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you use at that moment. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the ZS8 versus the K-30.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZS8 and K-30 is 92 and 63 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to visualize the contrast between sensor sizes purely by going over technical specs. The image here might provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS8 and K-30.

As you have seen, both cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The ZS8 due to its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Pentax K-30 will offer you greater detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged ZS8 is going to be behind in sensor innovation.