Nikon D500 vs Pentax K-5

Its time to take a more detailed look at the Nikon D500 versus Pentax K-5, both Advanced DSLR digital cameras by competitors Nikon and Pentax. There is a large difference between the sensor resolutions of the D500 (21MP) and K-5 (16MP) but they come with the same exact sensor dimensions (APS-C).

Photography Glossary

The D500 was announced 5 years later than the K-5 and that is quite a serious difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Mid-size SLR).

Before delving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a simple summary of how the D500 grades against the K-5 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon D500 & Pentax K-5. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon D500 Gallery & Pentax K-5 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera often, you will want to consider its weight and proportions. The Nikon D500 features outside measurements of 147mm x 115mm x 81mm (5.8" x 4.5" x 3.2") having a weight of 860 grams (1.90 lbs) and the Pentax K-5 has measurements of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") and a weight of 740 grams (1.63 lbs).

Check the Nikon D500 versus Pentax K-5 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you choose at that moment. Here is the front view size comparison of the D500 and the K-5.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the D500 and K-5 is 56 and 60 respectively.

Often, it can be tough to see the gap between sensor sizing purely by looking at technical specs. The visual underneath will offer you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the D500 and K-5.

As you have seen, both cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same megapixels. You can expect to see the Nikon D500 to give you greater detail with its extra 5MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop pics a little more aggressively. The fresher D500 is going to have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.