Pentax K-30 vs Pentax ist DS2

Below, we are reviewing the Pentax K-30 vs Pentax ist DS2, both Advanced DSLR cameras and both of them are sold by Pentax. There is a big difference among the image resolutions of the K-30 (16MP) and ist DS2 (6MP) but they use the exact same sensor measurements (APS-C).

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The K-30 was manufactured 7 years after the ist DS2 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras come with the identical body type (Mid-size SLR).

Before diving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a short summary of how the K-30 matches up vs the ist DS2 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Pentax K-30 and Pentax ist DS2. The entire galleries are viewable at Pentax K-30 Gallery and Pentax ist DS2 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to travel with your camera frequently, you should take into account its weight and volume. The Pentax K-30 provides physical measurements of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 650 grams (1.43 lbs) and the Pentax ist DS2 has sizing of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") along with a weight of 605 grams (1.33 lbs).

Take a look at the Pentax K-30 vs Pentax ist DS2 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have attached at the time. Below is the front view sizing comparison of the K-30 versus the ist DS2.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the K-30 and ist DS2 is 63 and 68 respectively.

In many cases, it is very hard to visualise the contrast in sensor dimensions only by checking out technical specs. The pic underneath may offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the K-30 and ist DS2.

As you can tell, the two cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but not the same MP. You should anticipate the Pentax K-30 to show extra detail due to its extra 10 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The fresher K-30 is going to have an advantage in sensor innovation.