Pentax KP vs Pentax S1

Here, we will be evaluating the Pentax KP and Pentax S1, former is a Advanced DSLR while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both produced by Pentax. There is a sizable difference among the sensor resolutions of the KP (24MP) and S1 (14MP) and the KP (APS-C) and S1 (1/2.3") boast different sensor sizes.

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The KP was launched 5 years after the S1 which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Pentax KP being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Pentax S1 being a Compact camera.

Before getting right into a in depth comparison, here is a short highlight of how the KP scores vs the S1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax KP & Pentax Optio S1. The complete galleries are viewable at Pentax KP Gallery & Pentax S1 Gallery.

If you are going to travel with your camera frequently, you're going to have to consider its weight and proportions. The Pentax KP comes with physical measurements of 132mm x 101mm x 76mm (5.2" x 4.0" x 3.0") and a weight of 703 grams (1.55 lbs) whilst the Pentax S1 has measurements of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") along with a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Check out the Pentax KP and Pentax S1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are working with at the time. Below is a front view proportions comparison of the KP versus the S1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the KP and S1 is 61 and 93 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be difficult to imagine the gap in sensor dimensions simply by researching technical specs. The picture below should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the KP and S1.

As you have seen, the two cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The KP because of its bigger sensor is going to make getting bokeh less difficult and the Pentax KP will result in greater detail utilizing its extra 10MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The newer KP provides an edge in sensor innovation.