Pentax K100D S vs Sony A580

On this page, we are looking at the Pentax K100D S and Sony A580, both Entry-Level DSLR digital cameras by brands Pentax and Sony. There exists a significant gap between the sensor resolutions of the K100D S (6MP) and A580 (16MP) but both cameras have the same sensor size (APS-C).

Photography Glossary

The K100D S was launched 4 years prior to the A580 which is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact SLR).

Before going right into a in depth comparison, here is a concise summation of how the K100D S grades versus the A580 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax K100D Super and Sony Alpha DSLR-A580. The complete galleries are provided at Pentax K100D S Gallery and Sony A580 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry around your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and volume. The Pentax K100D S offers outside dimensions of 129mm x 91mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.6" x 2.8") having a weight of 646 grams (1.42 lbs) while the Sony A580 has sizing of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") and a weight of 599 grams (1.32 lbs).

See the Pentax K100D S and Sony A580 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are using at the time. The following is a front view measurements comparison of the K100D S against the A580.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the K100D S and A580 is 65 and 64 respectively.

Normally, it can be tough to picture the gap between sensor sizes only by reviewing specifications. The pic underneath may give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the K100D S and A580.

Plainly, both cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but different MP. You should expect to see the Sony A580 to offer you more detail utilizing its extra 10 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop photos more aggressively. The more aged K100D S is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.