Panasonic G9 vs Pentax RZ18

Following is a in depth assessment of the Panasonic G9 vs Pentax RZ18, one is a Pro Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There is a crucial difference among the image resolutions of the G9 (20MP) and RZ18 (16MP) and the G9 (Four Thirds) and RZ18 (1/2.3") provide totally different sensor size.

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The G9 was unveiled 6 years after the RZ18 which is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic G9 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax RZ18 being a Compact camera.

Before we go right into a more detailed comparison, here is a brief summary of how the G9 scores against the RZ18 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DC-G9 and Pentax Optio RZ18. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic G9 Gallery and Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry around your camera often, you're going to have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic G9 has got exterior dimensions of 137mm x 97mm x 92mm (5.4" x 3.8" x 3.6") accompanied by a weight of 658 grams (1.45 lbs) and the Pentax RZ18 has dimensions of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

See the Panasonic G9 vs Pentax RZ18 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you use at that time. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the G9 and the RZ18.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the G9 and RZ18 is 62 and 92 respectively.

In many cases, it can be difficult to see the difference in sensor sizes purely by seeing a spec sheet. The image underneath should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the G9 and RZ18.

As you can see, both the cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The G9 with its larger sensor will make shooting bokeh easier and the Panasonic G9 will provide greater detail having an extra 4MP. Greater resolution will help you crop images a bit more aggressively. The newer G9 will have an edge with regard to sensor tech.