Nikon D300 vs Pentax K-5

On this page, we are looking at the Nikon D300 vs Pentax K-5, both Advanced DSLR cameras by brands Nikon and Pentax. There is a substantial difference among the resolutions of the D300 (12MP) and K-5 (16MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor dimensions (APS-C).

Photography Glossary

The D300 was launched 3 years earlier than the K-5 and that is a fairly big difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Mid-size SLR).

Before we go straight to a full comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the D300 grades against the K-5 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon D300 & Pentax K-5. The complete galleries are provided at Nikon D300 Gallery & Pentax K-5 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and measurements. The Nikon D300 has got exterior dimensions of 147mm x 114mm x 74mm (5.8" x 4.5" x 2.9") with a weight of 925 grams (2.04 lbs) and the Pentax K-5 has proportions of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") having a weight of 740 grams (1.63 lbs).

See the Nikon D300 vs Pentax K-5 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are working with at that moment. The following is a front view over all size comparison of the D300 versus the K-5.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the D300 and K-5 is 55 and 60 respectively.

Often, it is hard to envision the gap in sensor sizing merely by checking out specs. The photograph below might offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the D300 and K-5.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but not the same megapixels. You can anticipate the Pentax K-5 to show extra detail utilizing its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos more aggressively. The older D300 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.