Pentax K-500 vs Pentax RS1500

In this article, we are analyzing the Pentax K-500 versus Pentax RS1500, one is a Entry-Level DSLR and the other is a Small Sensor Compact and both are produced by Pentax. The sensor resolution of the K-500 (16MP) and the RS1500 (14MP) is very close but the K-500 (APS-C) and RS1500 (1/2.3") feature different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The K-500 was released 2 years after the RS1500 which is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Pentax K-500 being a Compact SLR camera and the Pentax RS1500 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a quick overview of how the K-500 matches up versus the RS1500 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax K-500 and Pentax Optio RS1500. The complete galleries are available at Pentax K-500 Gallery and Pentax RS1500 Gallery.

If you are aiming to travel with your camera, you will want to take into account its weight and proportions. The Pentax K-500 provides outside dimensions of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") along with a weight of 646 grams (1.42 lbs) while the Pentax RS1500 has measurements of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") along with a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Examine the Pentax K-500 versus Pentax RS1500 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you use at that moment. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the K-500 vs the RS1500.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the K-500 and RS1500 is 64 and 93 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to visualize the difference in sensor dimensions purely by researching technical specs. The picture here should offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the K-500 and RS1500.

As you have seen, both of these cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The K-500 featuring a larger sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF easier and the Pentax K-500 will result in greater detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The fresher K-500 provides an edge when it comes to sensor tech.