Pentax K-1 vs Sony A580

Let's look closer at the Pentax K-1 versus Sony A580, former being a Advanced DSLR while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by competitors Pentax and Sony. There is a considerable difference among the resolutions of the K-1 (36MP) and A580 (16MP) and the K-1 (Full frame) and A580 (APS-C) have totally different sensor size.

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The K-1 was unveiled 4 years later than the A580 and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Pentax K-1 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Sony A580 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting into a step-by-step comparison, here is a short view of how the K-1 grades versus the A580 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax K-1 & Sony Alpha DSLR-A580. The full galleries are available at Pentax K-1 Gallery & Sony A580 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera regularly, you should factor its weight and proportions. The Pentax K-1 offers physical dimensions of 137mm x 110mm x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") with a weight of 1010 grams (2.23 lbs) while the Sony A580 has measurements of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") with a weight of 599 grams (1.32 lbs).

Take a look at the Pentax K-1 versus Sony A580 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are using during that time. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the K-1 versus the A580.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the K-1 and A580 is 55 and 64 respectively.

In many cases, it is tough to envision the difference in sensor sizing only by researching specs. The graphic underneath might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the K-1 and A580.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The K-1 having a bigger sensor will make getting bokeh less difficult and the Pentax K-1 will render greater detail having an extra 20MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop photographs more aggressively. The more modern K-1 is going to have a benefit in sensor technology.