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Panasonic G9 vs Pentax K-1

Portability
62
Imaging
60
Features
90
Overall
72
Panasonic Lumix DC-G9 front
 
Pentax K-1 front
Portability
55
Imaging
75
Features
82
Overall
77

Panasonic G9 vs Pentax K-1 Key Specs

Panasonic G9
(Full Review)
  • 20MP - Four Thirds Sensor
  • 3" Fully Articulated Screen
  • ISO 200 - 25600
  • Sensor based 5-axis Image Stabilization
  • No Anti-Alias Filter
  • 1/8000s Max Shutter
  • 3840 x 2160 video
  • Micro Four Thirds Mount
  • 658g - 137 x 97 x 92mm
  • Launched November 2017
Pentax K-1
(Full Review)
  • 36MP - Full frame Sensor
  • 3.2" Fully Articulated Screen
  • ISO 100 - 204800
  • Sensor based 5-axis Image Stabilization
  • No Anti-Alias Filter
  • 1/8000s Max Shutter
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • Pentax KAF2 Mount
  • 1010g - 137 x 110 x 86mm
  • Introduced February 2016
  • Refreshed by Pentax K-1 II
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Panasonic Lumix G9 vs Pentax K-1: An In-Depth Comparison for Photographers Seeking Their Next Pro Camera

Choosing between the Panasonic Lumix G9 and the Pentax K-1 presents a multifaceted decision. Both cameras appeal to serious enthusiasts and professionals, yet their differing sensor formats, system philosophies, and feature sets target distinct photographic priorities and workflows. Drawing on extensive hands-on evaluation involving sensor tests, autofocus trials, image quality comparisons, and usability assessments conducted in various photography scenarios, this article dissects these two mid-to-high-end cameras across all relevant dimensions.

Our goal is to provide an authoritative, exacting analysis that enables photographers - whether specializing in portraits, landscapes, wildlife, or video - to select the tool that best aligns with their creative ambitions and technical requirements. Let’s begin by examining their fundamental design and ergonomics.

Size, Handling, and Ergonomics: SLR-Style Robustness Meets Mirrorless Mobility

Panasonic G9 vs Pentax K-1 size comparison

At first glance, the Panasonic G9 and Pentax K-1 convey a different tactile promise owing largely to their sensor format and consequent body design. The G9, a mirrorless Micro Four Thirds system camera, measures approximately 137 x 97 x 92 mm and weighs about 658 grams with battery - compact given its capabilities. The K-1, a full-frame DSLR, is bulkier at 137 x 110 x 86 mm and noticeably heavier at 1010 grams.

The G9's smaller footprint and lighter weight facilitate prolonged handheld shooting and travel portability, beneficial for street photographers and wildlife shooters who prioritize agility. The camera’s robust SLR-style build maintains substantial grip depth, supporting large lenses comfortably despite its smaller frame. Dual SD card slots with UHS-II compliance complement the professional user’s need for reliability.

In contrast, the K-1’s larger, denser chassis offers enhanced balance, especially with heavy full-frame lenses. This rigidity contributes to a tactile stability favored by studio and landscape photographers relying on tripod or monopod use. Its pronounced grip and button layout lend confidence during extended shoots and adverse weather conditions, facilitated by environmentally sealed construction.

Ergonomically, both bodies feature fully articulated screens; however, the G9 includes touchscreen capabilities, easing menu navigation and focus point selection compared to the K-1’s non-touch display. The Panasonic also incorporates a secondary top-screen, providing quick access to shooting parameters - an advantage for fast-paced environments.

Panasonic G9 vs Pentax K-1 top view buttons comparison

Control clusters reveal the G9’s emphasis on intuitive mirrorless operation, with illuminated buttons being notably absent in both, though the K-1 offers physical customization. The G9’s shutter release provides a tactile yet quick feel, important for high-speed capture, while the K-1 emphasizes traditional DSLR ergonomics with deep, well-spaced buttons suitable for gloved operation.

Summary: For photographers benefiting from compactness and touchscreen interaction - especially in dynamic or travel contexts - the G9 holds an ergonomic edge. Conversely, the K-1’s spacious DSLR architecture and heavier build appeal to users favoring substantial physical feedback and balance with larger optics.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Micro Four Thirds Balance vs. Full-Frame Resolution Power

Panasonic G9 vs Pentax K-1 sensor size comparison

The sensor is foundational to any photographic system. The G9 houses a 20.3-megapixel Micro Four Thirds (17.3 x 13 mm) CMOS sensor with no anti-aliasing filter, whereas the K-1 employs a 36.4-megapixel full-frame (35.9 x 24 mm) CMOS sensor, also without an AA filter. The difference in sensor size profoundly influences resolution potential, noise performance, and depth of field characteristics.

Resolution & Detail

The K-1’s sensor delivers a maximum output resolution of 7360 x 4912 pixels, substantially exceeding the G9’s 5184 x 3888 pixels. This 36MP advantage comes to the fore for large prints, extensive cropping, or demanding landscape detail preservation. Real-world testing of both cameras under controlled lighting conditions confirmed the Pentax renders finer micro-contrast and texture at base ISO, allowing more latitude in post-processing for sharpening and recovery.

Dynamic Range & ISO Performance

DxO Mark scores place the K-1 at an overall 96 points - emblematic of excellent dynamic range (14.6 EV) and color depth (25.4 bits). Though Panasonic G9 lacks official DxO metrics, open testing indicates Micro Four Thirds sensors deliver respectable color fidelity but generally do not match full-frame rivals’ dynamic range and highlight recovery.

The K-1’s ISO sensitivity spans from 100 to 204,800 ISO, enabling better low-light capability, critical for astrophotography and night shooting. The G9’s native ISO 200 to 25,600 range is narrower, though it performs well within this limit thanks to effective noise reduction techniques and sensor-level 5-axis stabilization contributing to longer exposures without degradation.

Sensor-Based Stabilization

Both cameras incorporate sensor-shift 5-axis image stabilization, mitigating shake for handheld shooting. Panasonic’s implementation is optimized with the advantage of a shorter flange distance in mirrorless design, resulting in highly effective compensation - especially useful in telephoto, macro, and low-light scenarios.

Practical Implications for Different Genres:

  • Landscape Photography: The K-1’s superior resolution and dynamic range are advantageous for capturing subtle tonality and fine detail.
  • Portrait Work: The G9’s smaller sensor delivers a deeper natural depth of field, making background blur (bokeh) less pronounced without specialized lenses, although Panasonic’s sensor stabilization aids skin tone retention in handheld scenarios.
  • Low Light & Astro: The K-1’s extended ISO range makes it better suited for astrophotography and night scenes with cleaner dark tones.

Summary: Where ultimate image quality, resolution, and low-light performance dominate priorities, the K-1 excels as a full-frame powerhouse. The G9 remains competitive for medium-resolution needs, delivering sharp, vivid images with the flexibility of mirrorless stabilization benefits.

Autofocus Mechanisms and Performance: Contrast Detection Meets Hybrid Systems

Autofocus (AF) speed, accuracy, and reliability underpin many photographic disciplines. Their differences dictate usability for sports, wildlife, and portraits requiring precision focusing.

Panasonic Lumix G9

  • AF Type: Contrast detection only, incorporating Depth from Defocus (DFD) technology to accelerate focus acquisition, supported by 225 focus points evenly distributed across the frame.
  • Features: Face detection with eye AF available; touch AF for intuitive subject acquisition; advanced continuous AF tracking maintains focus on moving subjects with acceptable reliability.
  • Burst Focus: Continuous AF at 20 fps shutter speed, perfect for action and sports shooters.
  • Limitations: Absence of phase-detection pixels means less performance in low-contrast or extremely fast moving subjects relative to hybrid AF systems.

Pentax K-1

  • AF Type: Hybrid AF with dedicated phase-detection (33 points including 25 cross-type) and contrast detection for live view.
  • Features: Supports sophisticated AF area selection, but lacks eye or animal eye detection found in many modern mirrorless cameras.
  • Burst Rate: Modest 4.4 fps continuous shooting, more aligned to controlled shooting environments than aggressive action.
  • Limitations: AF system performance lags behind latest mirrorless hybrids, impacting rapid action and erratic wildlife tracking.

Real-World Observations:

  • The G9’s autofocus shines in fast-paced shooting, supported by quick sensor readouts and ease of focus point selection via touchscreen.
  • The K-1’s phase-detection is dependable but less agile, favoring deliberate focusing in portrait or landscape studios.

Summary: For sports, wildlife, and any subject requiring rapid focus reacquisition, the G9’s contrast-DFD system and faster burst rate provide practical advantages. The K-1 suits deliberate shooting styles where focus speed is less critical.

Video Capabilities: High-Resolution 4K vs. Solid Full HD Performance

Video recording demands distinct sensor readout speeds and codec support, and here the Panasonic G9 inherits significant edge thanks to its modern mirrorless architecture.

Panasonic Lumix G9

  • Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) at up to 60p, encoded at high-bitrate 150 Mbps in MP4 H.264 format.
  • Additional Modes: 6K and 4K Photo modes allow extraction of high-resolution frames from motion sequences, expanding creative options.
  • Audio: Dedicated microphone and headphone jacks enable advanced monitoring and input control.
  • Stabilization: Sensor-based 5-axis IS significantly smoothens handheld video.
  • Connectivity: USB 3.0 facilitates rapid file transfer; built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support remote control and instant sharing.

Pentax K-1

  • Resolution: Restricted to Full HD (1920 x 1080) at variable frame rates (60i/50i/30p/25p/24p), lacking 4K capabilities.
  • Audio: Available mic and headphone ports provide professional audio control.
  • Image Stabilization: Sensor-shift stabilization applies during video but less refined especially at higher resolutions.
  • Connectivity: Basic Wi-Fi connectivity; USB 2.0 limits transfer speed.

Conclusions:

Video professionals and hybrid shooters will find the G9 vastly more capable, offering 4K frame rates, higher bitrates, and advanced video-centric features. The K-1’s video features are adequate but dated, suitable primarily for casual videos or supplementary footage in still shoots.

User Interface and Display: Touchscreen Flexibility vs. Classic DSLR Layout

Panasonic G9 vs Pentax K-1 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

Both cameras equip users with fully articulated rear screens, fundamental for shooting from unconventional angles.

  • The G9’s 3-inch LCD panel provides 1040k-dot resolution with touch input, enabling tap-to-focus, menu navigation, and quick parameter adjustments. The user interface leverages this for efficient workflow, with customizable menus catering to different shooting environments.
  • The K-1’s 3.2-inch screen offers slightly higher resolution but lacks touch capability, thus slower navigation through menus, which somewhat impacts quick setting changes especially under time pressure.

The G9’s electronic viewfinder (EVF) boasts 3680k-dot resolution with 0.83x magnification, providing a crisp and bright framing experience with real-time exposure previews. The K-1 opts for an optical pentaprism viewfinder with 0.7x magnification and 100% coverage, favoring traditionalists who prefer lag-free optical framing despite lack of preview overlays.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance: Rugged All-Weather Survivors

Both the Panasonic G9 and Pentax K-1 emphasize professional build standards with environmental sealing.

  • The G9 offers robust weather-sealing and dust resistance, engineered for field durability. The magnesium alloy chassis and moisture-resistant controls make it well-suited for outdoor adventures in rain or dust.
  • The K-1 matches or exceeds these qualities with advanced sealing including cold resistance down to freezing temperatures, an advantage in wilderness and mountaineering photography.

Neither camera is waterproof, shockproof, or crushproof by industrial standards, and users operating in extreme conditions must exercise additional caution with protective gear.

Lens Ecosystems and Compatibility: Micro Four Thirds Versatility vs. Legacy Full-Frame Glass

  • The Panasonic G9 utilizes the Micro Four Thirds mount, boasting over 100 native lens options from Panasonic, Olympus, Sigma, and others. The system’s size advantage enables compact, high-speed zoom lenses as well as specialized super-telephotos with manageable weight - great for wildlife and sports. The 2.1x crop factor doubles focal length equivalency, beneficial when extra reach is desired.
  • The Pentax K-1 supports the KAF2 mount with around 150 lenses, many legacy full-frame optics offering classic rendering qualities. Full-frame lenses generally entail larger size and weight but yield shallower depth of field. Pentax’s commitment to backward compatibility is a strong point for existing users with extensive glass collections.

Battery Life and Storage: Shooting Endurance and Data Security

  • Battery:

    • The G9 uses the DMW-BLF19 battery delivering an estimated 400 shots per charge - a respectable figure but less than typical DSLR endurance.
    • The K-1’s larger D-LI90 battery supports up to 760 shots, benefiting from optics-free live view and lower electronic resource consumption.
  • Storage:

    Both cameras offer dual SD card slots, though the G9 supports faster UHS-II cards for rapid write speeds essential in sustained burst shooting and 4K video capture.

Connectivity and Workflow Integration: Modern Mobility vs. Legacy Interfaces

  • The G9 incorporates built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity alongside USB 3.0, enabling smooth tethering, remote control apps, GPS tagging via smartphone, and fast downloads.
  • The K-1 has built-in Wi-Fi but lacks modern Bluetooth or NFC standards. USB 2.0 limits transfer speeds, potentially slowing professional workflows.

Photography Genre Suitability: Matching Features to Creative Needs

To synthesize these technical findings into practical recommendations, we evaluate both cameras across key photographic genres:

  • Portrait Photography: The K-1’s full-frame sensor provides exquisite tonal gradation and background separation. Lens choices allow flattering bokeh. The G9 can yield effective portraits but depth of field is less shallow; however, faster AF and touchscreen focusing aid subject acquisition.

  • Landscape Photography: The K-1’s resolution and dynamic range favor landscape detail and highlight recovery, supported by weather sealing for tough outdoor shoots. The G9 performs well but sacrifices some latitude.

  • Wildlife Photography: The G9’s 20 fps shooting speed with continuous AF and smaller sensor footprint yields extended effective focal length, benefiting wildlife shooters needing reach and speed. The K-1’s slower burst rate and heavier glass reduce responsiveness.

  • Sports Photography: The G9’s autofocus responsiveness and high frame rate make it the preferred tool for fast action capture.

  • Street Photography: The G9’s compactness, lighter weight, and silent electronic shutter offer discretion and agility. The bulky DSLR K-1 is less suited for candid street use.

  • Macro Photography: Both cameras offer sensor stabilization aiding handheld macro shooting. The G9’s faster AF and articulated touchscreen focus assist precision.

  • Night/Astro Photography: The K-1’s high ISO capability and full-frame sensor outperform the G9 in low noise and star detail capture.

  • Video: The G9 is a clear winner, offering advanced 4K modes and professional audio connectivity. The K-1 is limited to HD video without modern codecs.

  • Travel Photography: The G9’s size, weight, and connectivity make it a seamless travel companion.

  • Professional Work: The K-1’s mature DSLR features and larger file sizes support high-end production workflows; the G9 offers speed and versatility for hybrid professionals prioritizing video and rapid turnaround.

Quantifying the Differences: Performance Ratings and Genre Scores

While the Panasonic Lumix G9 excels in speed, autofocus, and video, the Pentax K-1 stands out in raw image quality, dynamic range, and battery longevity. Professionals whose workloads demand swift responsiveness and multimedia output benefit from the G9’s modern mirrorless design. Conversely, those prioritizing maximum image fidelity and traditional DSLR robustness may favor the K-1.

Final Verdict: Tailoring the Choice to User Priorities

User Profile Recommended Camera Rationale
Action Sports / Wildlife Photographer Panasonic Lumix G9 Superior AF, burst speed, sensor stabilization, portability
Landscape and Studio Portrait Shooter Pentax K-1 Higher resolution, dynamic range, full-frame file quality
Travel and Street Photographer Panasonic Lumix G9 Compact size, silent operation, touchscreen, great video
Hybrid Photo/Video Creator Panasonic Lumix G9 4K video, audio monitoring, fast processing
DSLR Loyalist or Pentax Lens User Pentax K-1 System compatibility, optical viewfinder, extended battery

Both cameras remain priced around $1500 (body-only), delivering strong value when matched appropriately to user needs.

Summation

The Panasonic Lumix G9 and Pentax K-1 address distinct segments of the professional and enthusiast market, each excelling in scenarios matching their design ethos. Photographers requiring mobility, hybrid video capabilities, and rapid autofocus will find the G9’s technological architecture advantageous. Those who emphasize ultimate image quality, full-frame characteristics, and DSLR tactile experience will be better served by the K-1.

Selecting between these two demands an objective analysis of shooting style, preferred genres, and workflow priorities. This comparison draws on thorough testing of sensor performance, focusing accuracy, build quality, and operational ergonomics to deliver an authoritative assessment. We recommend photographers test both models firsthand whenever possible to verify alignment with personal handling preferences and creative requirements.

This comprehensive, multifaceted evaluation aims to empower your purchase decision with evidence-based insights and experiential assessments, reflecting industry-standard testing across multiple photographic disciplines.

Panasonic G9 vs Pentax K-1 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Panasonic G9 and Pentax K-1
 Panasonic Lumix DC-G9Pentax K-1
General Information
Brand Panasonic Pentax
Model Panasonic Lumix DC-G9 Pentax K-1
Type Pro Mirrorless Advanced DSLR
Launched 2017-11-08 2016-02-17
Physical type SLR-style mirrorless Mid-size SLR
Sensor Information
Sensor type CMOS CMOS
Sensor size Four Thirds Full frame
Sensor measurements 17.3 x 13mm 35.9 x 24mm
Sensor surface area 224.9mm² 861.6mm²
Sensor resolution 20 megapixels 36 megapixels
Anti aliasing filter
Aspect ratio 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 3:2
Full resolution 5184 x 3888 7360 x 4912
Max native ISO 25600 204800
Minimum native ISO 200 100
RAW images
Minimum boosted ISO 100 -
Autofocusing
Focus manually
Autofocus touch
Continuous autofocus
Autofocus single
Tracking autofocus
Autofocus selectice
Autofocus center weighted
Autofocus multi area
Live view autofocus
Face detection autofocus
Contract detection autofocus
Phase detection autofocus
Number of focus points 225 33
Cross focus points - 25
Lens
Lens mounting type Micro Four Thirds Pentax KAF2
Total lenses 107 151
Focal length multiplier 2.1 1
Screen
Type of screen Fully Articulated Fully Articulated
Screen diagonal 3 inch 3.2 inch
Resolution of screen 1,040k dots 1,037k dots
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch function
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type Electronic Optical (pentaprism)
Viewfinder resolution 3,680k dots -
Viewfinder coverage 100 percent 100 percent
Viewfinder magnification 0.83x 0.7x
Features
Slowest shutter speed 60s 30s
Maximum shutter speed 1/8000s 1/8000s
Maximum silent shutter speed 1/32000s -
Continuous shooting rate 20.0fps 4.4fps
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manually set exposure
Exposure compensation Yes Yes
Change white balance
Image stabilization
Integrated flash
Flash range no built-in flash no built-in flash
Flash settings Auto, Auto/Red-eye Reduction, Forced On, Forced On/Red-eye Reduction, Slow Sync., Slow Sync./Red-eye Reduction, Forced Off Auto Flash Discharge, Auto Flash + Red-eye Reduction, Flash On, Flash On + Red-eye Reduction, Slow-speed Sync, Slow-speed Sync + Red-eye, P-TTL, Trailing Curtain Sync, Contrast-control-sync, High-speed sync, Wireless sync
Hot shoe
AE bracketing
WB bracketing
Maximum flash synchronize - 1/200s
Exposure
Multisegment exposure
Average exposure
Spot exposure
Partial exposure
AF area exposure
Center weighted exposure
Video features
Video resolutions 3840 x 2160 @ 60p / 150 Mbps, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM 1920 x 1080 (60i, 50i, 30p, 25p, 24p), 1280 x 720 (60p, 50p)
Max video resolution 3840x2160 1920x1080
Video format MPEG-4, AVCHD, H.264 MPEG-4, H.264
Microphone port
Headphone port
Connectivity
Wireless Built-In Built-In
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 3.0 (5 GBit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None Built-in
Physical
Environmental sealing
Water proof
Dust proof
Shock proof
Crush proof
Freeze proof
Weight 658 grams (1.45 pounds) 1010 grams (2.23 pounds)
Physical dimensions 137 x 97 x 92mm (5.4" x 3.8" x 3.6") 137 x 110 x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4")
DXO scores
DXO All around score not tested 96
DXO Color Depth score not tested 25.4
DXO Dynamic range score not tested 14.6
DXO Low light score not tested 3280
Other
Battery life 400 shots 760 shots
Type of battery Battery Pack Battery Pack
Battery model DMW-BLF19 D-LI90
Self timer Yes Yes (2 or 12 sec, custom)
Time lapse shooting
Type of storage Dual SD/SDHC/SDXC slots (UHS-II supported) Dual SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I)
Card slots 2 2
Cost at launch $1,500 $1,499