Pentax K100D vs Pentax ist DS2

Below, we will be analyzing the Pentax K100D and Pentax ist DS2, former being a Entry-Level DSLR while the latter is a Advanced DSLR and both are sold by Pentax. The resolution of the K100D (6MP) and the ist DS2 (6MP) is relatively comparable and they enjoy the exact same sensor measurements (APS-C).

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The K100D was brought out 16 months later than the ist DS2 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Pentax K100D being a Compact SLR camera and the Pentax ist DS2 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before getting in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick view of how the K100D grades against the ist DS2 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax K100D & Pentax ist DS2. The entire galleries are viewable at Pentax K100D Gallery & Pentax ist DS2 Gallery.

If you are going to lug around your camera frequently, you will need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Pentax K100D has outer measurements of 129mm x 93mm x 70mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 2.8") with a weight of 660 grams (1.46 lbs) and the Pentax ist DS2 has measurements of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") accompanied by a weight of 605 grams (1.33 lbs).

Check out the Pentax K100D and Pentax ist DS2 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are using at that moment. Here is the front view proportions comparison of the K100D against the ist DS2.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the K100D and ist DS2 is 64 and 68 respectively.

Often, it is hard to visualize the gap in sensor measurements just by seeing specs. The visual below may offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the K100D and ist DS2.

As you can plainly see, the 2 cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements and the same exact megapixels so you can expect comparable quality of photographs however you should consider the age of the cameras into account. The newer K100D should have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.