Pentax K-30 vs Pentax K-S2

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Pentax K-30 and Pentax K-S2, one being a Advanced DSLR and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR and both are manufactured by Pentax. The sensor resolution of the K-30 (16MP) and the K-S2 (20MP) is relatively well matched and they use the same exact sensor sizes (APS-C).

Photography Glossary

The K-30 was announced 3 years before the K-S2 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Pentax K-30 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Pentax K-S2 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick summary of how the K-30 matches up versus the K-S2 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax K-30 and Pentax K-S2. The whole galleries are viewable at Pentax K-30 Gallery and Pentax K-S2 Gallery.

In case you're intending to lug around your camera, you'll have to take into account its weight and size. The Pentax K-30 enjoys outside dimensions of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") along with a weight of 650 grams (1.43 lbs) while the Pentax K-S2 has specifications of 123mm x 91mm x 73mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 2.9") having a weight of 678 grams (1.49 lbs).

Take a look at the Pentax K-30 and Pentax K-S2 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you select at that moment. Underneath is the front view physical size comparison of the K-30 vs the K-S2.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the K-30 and K-S2 is 63 and 64 respectively.

Typically, it is tough to imagine the gap between sensor measurements only by looking at specifications. The visual here might provide you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the K-30 and K-S2.

To sum up, each of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You should count on the Pentax K-S2 to give more detail with its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The older K-30 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor technology.