Pentax K-1 vs Sony A99

Below is a thorough analysis of the Pentax K-1 and Sony A99, both Advanced DSLR digital cameras by brands Pentax and Sony. There exists a considerable gap between the resolutions of the K-1 (36MP) and A99 (24MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor measurements (Full frame).

Photography Glossary

The K-1 was introduced 3 years later than the A99 and that is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras have the same body design (Mid-size SLR).

Before delving into a in depth comparison, here is a simple overview of how the K-1 scores versus the A99 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax K-1 & Sony SLT-A99. The whole galleries are available at Pentax K-1 Gallery & Sony A99 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to lug around your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor its weight and measurements. The Pentax K-1 offers outer measurements of 137mm x 110mm x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") along with a weight of 1010 grams (2.23 lbs) and the Sony A99 has proportions of 147mm x 111mm x 78mm (5.8" x 4.4" x 3.1") with a weight of 812 grams (1.79 lbs).

Check the Pentax K-1 and Sony A99 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you select at that time. Underneath is a front view over all size comparison of the K-1 against the A99.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the K-1 and A99 is 55 and 57 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to visualise the difference between sensor measurements simply by going over specs. The visual here may offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the K-1 and A99.

All in all, the two cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same megapixels. You can expect the Pentax K-1 to offer you more detail using its extra 12 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots more aggressively. The more recent K-1 is going to have an advantage in sensor innovation.