Pentax K100D vs Sony A850

Here is a comprehensive overview of the Pentax K100D and Sony A850, one being a Entry-Level DSLR and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by competitors Pentax and Sony. There is a sizeable difference among the resolutions of the K100D (6MP) and A850 (25MP) and the K100D (APS-C) and A850 (Full frame) provide different sensor size.

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The K100D was announced 4 years earlier than the A850 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Pentax K100D being a Compact SLR camera and the Sony A850 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the K100D matches up against the A850 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax K100D and Sony Alpha DSLR-A850. The whole galleries are available at Pentax K100D Gallery and Sony A850 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera, you will have to think about its weight and size. The Pentax K100D comes with exterior measurements of 129mm x 93mm x 70mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 660 grams (1.46 lbs) and the Sony A850 has specifications of 156mm x 117mm x 82mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 3.2") along with a weight of 895 grams (1.97 lbs).

Check the Pentax K100D and Sony A850 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have at the time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the K100D against the A850.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the K100D and A850 is 64 and 54 respectively.

Often, it's tough to imagine the difference in sensor sizing just by seeing specs. The photograph here will give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the K100D and A850.

All in all, both of those cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The K100D using its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallower depth of field trickier and the Sony A850 will provide greater detail with its extra 19 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots more aggressively. The older K100D will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.