Pentax K-r vs Sony A57

In this article, we are analyzing the Pentax K-r vs Sony A57, both Entry-Level DSLR cameras by brands Pentax and Sony. There is a huge difference among the sensor resolutions of the K-r (12MP) and A57 (16MP) but they use the same exact sensor size (APS-C).

Photography Glossary

The K-r was launched 18 months before the A57 making the cameras a generation away from each other. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact SLR).

Before getting in to a thorough comparison, below is a brief view of how the K-r grades against the A57 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax K-r and Sony SLT-A57. The complete galleries are available at Pentax K-r Gallery and Sony A57 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to travel with your camera regularly, you'll need to think about its weight and volume. The Pentax K-r comes with external dimensions of 125mm x 97mm x 68mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 2.7") accompanied by a weight of 598 grams (1.32 lbs) and the Sony A57 has sizing of 132mm x 98mm x 81mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.2") accompanied by a weight of 618 grams (1.36 lbs).

Analyze the Pentax K-r vs Sony A57 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you select at that time. Underneath is the front view overall size comparison of the K-r versus the A57.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the K-r and A57 is 67 and 64 respectively.

Often, it can be tough to picture the contrast in sensor dimensions merely by looking through technical specs. The image here should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the K-r and A57.

As you have seen, both of those cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but different resolution. You should expect to see the Sony A57 to provide you with greater detail utilizing its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop pics far more aggressively. The more aged K-r will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.