Pentax K-r vs Pentax ist DL2

On this page, we are evaluating the Pentax K-r and Pentax ist DL2, one being a Entry-Level DSLR and the other is a Advanced DSLR and both of them are designed by Pentax. There is a huge difference between the sensor resolutions of the K-r (12MP) and ist DL2 (6MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor sizes (APS-C).

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The K-r was announced 5 years later than the ist DL2 and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Pentax K-r being a Compact SLR camera and the Pentax ist DL2 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before going into a more detailed comparison, here is a short view of how the K-r matches up vs the ist DL2 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Pentax K-r and Pentax ist DL2. The whole galleries are provided at Pentax K-r Gallery and Pentax ist DL2 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera often, you should think about its weight and measurements. The Pentax K-r comes with external dimensions of 125mm x 97mm x 68mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 2.7") with a weight of 598 grams (1.32 lbs) and the Pentax ist DL2 has proportions of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") with a weight of 565 grams (1.25 lbs).

Take a look at the Pentax K-r and Pentax ist DL2 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you use at that moment. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the K-r vs the ist DL2.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the K-r and ist DL2 is 67 and 69 respectively.

Generally, it is difficult to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing merely by checking a spec sheet. The photograph here will help offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the K-r and ist DL2.

As you can see, each of the cameras have the same sensor dimensions but different resolution. You should anticipate the Pentax K-r to resolve extra detail with its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will help you crop images a bit more aggressively. The more modern K-r should have an edge in sensor innovation.