Pentax 645D vs Sony S980

Here is a in depth analysis of the Pentax 645D versus Sony S980, one being a Pro DSLR and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Pentax and Sony. There exists a huge gap among the image resolutions of the 645D (40MP) and S980 (12MP) and the 645D (Medium format) and S980 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor sizes.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The 645D was revealed 13 months later than the S980 which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Pentax 645D being a Large SLR camera and the Sony S980 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a concise overview of how the 645D scores vs the S980 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax 645D and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The full galleries are viewable at Pentax 645D Gallery and Sony S980 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Pentax 645D provides outer measurements of 156mm x 117mm x 119mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.7") along with a weight of 1480 grams (3.26 lbs) and the Sony S980 has measurements of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

See the Pentax 645D versus Sony S980 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are working with at that moment. Below is the front view sizing comparison of the 645D and the S980.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 645D and S980 is 50 and 94 respectively.

Typically, it's tough to see the gap in sensor sizing only by looking through specs. The graphic underneath will help offer you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the 645D and S980.

All in all, both of the cameras have got different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The 645D using its bigger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF less difficult and the Pentax 645D will result in greater detail because of its extra 28MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots much more aggressively. The fresher 645D will have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.