Nikon D80 vs Pentax K-5 II

Its time to look a little more closely at the Nikon D80 versus Pentax K-5 II, both Advanced DSLR digital cameras by manufacturers Nikon and Pentax. There is a crucial difference between the resolutions of the D80 (10MP) and K-5 II (16MP) but they possess the same exact sensor measurements (APS-C).

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The D80 was brought out 7 years earlier than the K-5 II and that is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Mid-size SLR).

Before we go through a detailed comparison, below is a short summary of how the D80 scores against the K-5 II with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon D80 and Pentax K-5 II. The entire galleries are viewable at Nikon D80 Gallery and Pentax K-5 II Gallery.

When you are going to carry your camera often, you should consider its weight and proportions. The Nikon D80 enjoys physical dimensions of 132mm x 103mm x 77mm (5.2" x 4.1" x 3.0") with a weight of 668 grams (1.47 lbs) and the Pentax K-5 II has measurements of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") along with a weight of 760 grams (1.68 lbs).

Look at the Nikon D80 versus Pentax K-5 II in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose during that time. The following is the front view dimensions comparison of the D80 and the K-5 II.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the D80 and K-5 II is 62 and 60 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's hard to visualise the gap between sensor sizing just by looking at technical specs. The photograph below will give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the D80 and K-5 II.

As you can tell, the two cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same resolution. You should expect to see the Pentax K-5 II to give you greater detail having its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will help you crop images far more aggressively. The older D80 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.