Panasonic G9 vs Pentax K-1
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Panasonic G9 vs Pentax K-1 Key Specs
(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
(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

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
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.
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
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
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
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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.
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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:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Sports Photography: The G9’s autofocus responsiveness and high frame rate make it the preferred tool for fast action capture.
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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.
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Macro Photography: Both cameras offer sensor stabilization aiding handheld macro shooting. The G9’s faster AF and articulated touchscreen focus assist precision.
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Night/Astro Photography: The K-1’s high ISO capability and full-frame sensor outperform the G9 in low noise and star detail capture.
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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.
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Travel Photography: The G9’s size, weight, and connectivity make it a seamless travel companion.
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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
Panasonic Lumix DC-G9 | Pentax 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 |