Panasonic G9 vs Pentax VS20

Here is a extended assessment of the Panasonic G9 and Pentax VS20, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a large gap among the resolutions of the G9 (20MP) and VS20 (16MP) and the G9 (Four Thirds) and VS20 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor measurements.

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The G9 was launched 5 years later than the VS20 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic G9 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax VS20 being a Compact camera.

Before going through a in depth comparison, below is a short highlight of how the G9 matches up against the VS20 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DC-G9 & Pentax Optio VS20. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic G9 Gallery & Pentax VS20 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry your camera regularly, you are going to need to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic G9 provides outside measurements of 137mm x 97mm x 92mm (5.4" x 3.8" x 3.6") with a weight of 658 grams (1.45 lbs) whilst the Pentax VS20 has measurements of 111mm x 61mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 1.5") and a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic G9 and Pentax VS20 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Following is the front view scale comparison of the G9 versus the VS20.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the G9 and VS20 is 62 and 90 respectively.

Quite often, it is very difficult to visualise the gap in sensor sizing merely by going through a spec sheet. The graphic below will help offer you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the G9 and VS20.

Clearly, each of these cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The G9 due to its bigger sensor will make shooting bokeh simpler and the Panasonic G9 will provide more detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will help you crop shots far more aggressively. The newer G9 will have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.