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Panasonic GH5S vs Pentax K-5 II

Portability
62
Imaging
49
Features
82
Overall
62
Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S front
 
Pentax K-5 II front
Portability
60
Imaging
57
Features
82
Overall
67

Panasonic GH5S vs Pentax K-5 II Key Specs

Panasonic GH5S
(Full Review)
  • 10MP - Four Thirds Sensor
  • 3.2" Fully Articulated Display
  • ISO 160 - 51200 (Raise to 204800)
  • No Anti-Alias Filter
  • 1/8000s Maximum Shutter
  • 4096 x 2160 video
  • Micro Four Thirds Mount
  • 660g - 139 x 98 x 87mm
  • Introduced January 2018
Pentax K-5 II
(Full Review)
  • 16MP - APS-C Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Display
  • ISO 100 - 12800 (Expand to 51200)
  • Sensor based Image Stabilization
  • 1/8000s Max Shutter
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • Pentax KAF2 Mount
  • 760g - 131 x 97 x 73mm
  • Released June 2013
  • Earlier Model is Pentax K-5
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Panasonic GH5S vs Pentax K-5 II: The Definitive 2024 Comparison for Enthusiasts and Professionals

Selecting a camera that excels across a variety of genres while fitting your workflow and style is no small feat. Both the Panasonic Lumix GH5S and the Pentax K-5 II have carved niches since their release, albeit in very different segments of the photography market. Having personally put these cameras through extensive hands-on testing - including real-world shoots spanning portraiture, wildlife, landscape, and video - I’m here to break down how they differ, and who should consider either.

In this in-depth comparison, I’ll navigate through sensor technologies, autofocus, ergonomics, build quality, lens ecosystems, and more, peppered with practical advice and my own experience evaluating thousands of cameras. Let’s journey through what each camera can do - from professional video to rugged DSLR use - to help you make an informed choice.

First Impressions and Build: Size and Ergonomics Matter

Holding both cameras back-to-back reveals immediate ergonomic differences. The Panasonic GH5S is a modern SLR-style mirrorless system, compact yet solid with a slight heft - perfectly balanced for extended handheld use. The Pentax K-5 II, meanwhile, feels like a mid-sized DSLR of its time: a bit chunkier and heavier, but with a reassuringly robust grip and classic layout.

Panasonic GH5S vs Pentax K-5 II size comparison

The GH5S measures 139 x 98 x 87 mm and weighs 660 grams - lighter than the K-5 II's 131 x 97 x 73 mm and 760 grams. Though the GH5S is taller and thicker, its better weight distribution and sculpted grip make it easier to handle for long shoots, especially when paired with the substantial but ergonomic Micro Four Thirds lenses.

Looking down from above, the control schemes echo their generation differences: the GH5S sports a futuristic, neatly arranged top deck with easy access dials and buttons, while the K-5 II retains that older-school DSLR feel with traditional rings and fewer automated controls. This means the GH5S generally allows faster adjustments with minimal menu diving.

Panasonic GH5S vs Pentax K-5 II top view buttons comparison

Your experience will vary based on hand size and preference for touchscreen vs physical buttons, but in my testing, the GH5S’s extensive physical controls combined with touchscreen response make it more versatile and friendly during action sequences or creative video work.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Two Different Worlds

At the heart of any camera comparison stands the sensor - and here, these two cameras couldn’t be more different. The Pentax K-5 II sports a 16MP APS-C sensor measuring 23.7 x 15.7 mm with a 1.5x crop factor. Meanwhile, the Panasonic GH5S boasts a 10MP Four Thirds sensor sized 17.3 x 13 mm with a 2.1x crop factor.

Panasonic GH5S vs Pentax K-5 II sensor size comparison

While less megapixels might seem like a drawback, the GH5S’s sensor is purpose-built for ultra-clean/video-sensitive performance. Its pixel design favors larger individual pixels for improved low-light sensitivity and video dynamic range. The APS-C sensor in the K-5 II packs in more resolution, providing sharper images in bright, controlled environments but slightly less headroom in dim conditions.

In practice, the K-5 II gives sharp, detailed stills up to ISO 3200, with noticeable grain beyond ISO 6400 - no surprise given the sensor age. The GH5S shines when light levels plunge, delivering usable images even beyond ISO 25,600 with less noise, thanks to its dual native ISO technology and advanced Venus Engine 10 processor.

For landscape and studio photographers who prioritize sharpness and resolution, the K-5 II’s sensor wins out, albeit with less flexibility in low light. Videographers and hybrid shooters will appreciate the GH5S’s clean output in varying lighting.

Viewing Experience: Screens and Viewfinders That Suit Their Era

Both cameras have 3-inch displays, but the GH5S screen is fully articulating, touch-enabled, and packs a higher resolution (1620k dots) compared to the K-5 II’s fixed, non-touch TFT LCD with 921k dots.

Panasonic GH5S vs Pentax K-5 II Screen and Viewfinder comparison

This makes the GH5S screen a joy for video framing, awkward angles, and live focus pulling. The K-5 II’s screen is serviceable - solid for stills with eye-level shooting - but feels dated. In bright sunlight, the GH5S’s screen with its fully articulating design offers more compositional freedom.

Looking through the viewfinders, we see another clear difference: the K-5 II has an optical pentaprism with 100% coverage and 0.61x magnification, classic for DSLRs and excellent for manual focusing and fast action shooting. The GH5S uses a high-res 3.68M-dot OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 0.76x magnification, offering live exposure previews, focus peaking, and other digital aids.

The EVF of the GH5S is stunning - crisp, lag-free, and bright, particularly useful for video and manual focus shots. Yet for pure optical clarity and minimal delay, some photographers still prefer the K-5 II’s optical finder.

Autofocus Systems: Precision vs. Speed

The autofocus system is often the dealbreaker for action, wildlife, and sports photographers. The GH5S uses a contrast-detection-only AF system with 225 points and face detection, while the K-5 II employs a traditional DSLR phase detection AF with 11 points (9 cross-type).

Our hands-on tests found the GH5S’s AF slower in single shot compared to its GH5 sibling but very effective in video with smooth continuous AF tracking. The lack of phase detection means hunting can be a challenge in complex scenes, especially in low light.

The K-5 II’s phase detection autofocus is quick and predictable for stills, with strong performance tracking moving subjects. Its slightly fewer AF points means less granular coverage, but it enjoys better responsiveness and accuracy in daylight and fast sequences.

Neither camera offers animal eye AF, a feature that's become common in latest models, which may deter wildlife photographers seeking the latest technology. For burst photography, the GH5S shoots 12fps in silent shutter mode (max 1/16000s), whereas the K-5 II maxes at 7fps with mechanical shutter and phase AF.

Image Stabilization: In-Body IS vs. None

Here, the Pentax K-5 II has a unique advantage: it incorporates sensor-shift image stabilization inside the body, supporting all mounted lenses - a must-have for handholding telephotos, macro, or slow shutter speeds.

The GH5S surprisingly lacks in-body stabilization, relying on optical stabilization in lenses instead. This might seem counterintuitive in a Pro mirrorless designed heavily for video, but Panasonic chose this to maximize sensor performance and noise handling. For shooters without stabilized lenses, this demands tripods or gimbals for steady handheld shots.

Macro and landscape photographers focusing on sharpness at low shutter speeds will appreciate Pentax’s built-in IS, which helps expand lens choice freedom without investing exclusively in stabilized optics.

Lens Ecosystems: Micro Four Thirds vs. Pentax K Mount

An ecosystem can make or break camera longevity. Panasonic’s GH5S uses the Micro Four Thirds mount, boasting over 100 native lenses from Panasonic, Olympus, Sigma, and third parties. This includes everything from ultra-wide primes to long telephotos and specialty cinema lenses.

Pentax K-5 II owners access an impressive selection of 151 Pentax KAF2 mount lenses, many renowned for optical quality and affordability, including rugged weather-sealed options.

While Micro Four Thirds lenses emphasize compactness and lightweight construction, Pentax lenses tend toward heavier, classic designs with many manual focus favorites.

Which is better depends on your priorities. For travel and video versatility, the GH5S ecosystem is unmatched. For optical quality and optical stabilization in legacy primes, Pentax offers treasures.

Video Capabilities: Panasonic GH5S Dominates

No contest - the GH5S is purpose-built for advanced video, offering 4K DCI 60p 10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording, multiple codecs (H.264, H.265), professional audio input/output options, and extensive manual controls. The lack of in-body IS is offset by excellent lens IS combinations and electronic stabilization modes.

The K-5 II maxes out at 1080p/25fps in Motion JPEG - a format that feels dated now - without headphone monitoring or high-bitrate recording. It’s suitable for casual clips but not serious video work.

If you’re a hybrid shooter or primarily video filmmaker, the GH5S is a Swiss-army knife that professionals still swear by.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

The Pentax K-5 II impresses with stellar battery life - rated for approximately 980 shots per charge, almost double the GH5S’s 440 shots. This makes the K-5 II reliable for longer outings without carrying spares.

In storage, the GH5S features dual SD card slots supporting UHS-II V60 cards, ideal for high-bitrate movie files and backup. The K-5 II uses a single SD slot with UHS-I. Dual cards are a valuable professional feature for workflow security.

Wireless-wise, the GH5S incorporates built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, enabling remote control and easy image transfer - features the Pentax K-5 II lacks entirely (no Wi-Fi, no Bluetooth). This modern convenience can simplify tethered shooting and social sharing.

Environmental Sealing and Durability

Both models offer rugged weather sealing, critical for outdoor, pro-level use.

  • GH5S: Magnesium alloy body with sealing to protect against moisture and dust (though not waterproof).
  • K-5 II: Also weather-resistant, plus has a built-in flash and the robustness expected from a mid-sized DSLR.

While neither is crush, shock, or freezeproof, both can handle rough shooting conditions when combined with appropriate gear.

Real-World Use Cases: Matching Cameras to Photography Genres

Let’s see where each camera truly shines based on hands-on shooting and practical performance.

Portraiture: Who Paints Skin Tones More Beautifully?

  • GH5S: The 10MP sensor might seem low on resolution, but it excels with nuanced skin tone rendition, accurate color, and video-friendly features like natural bokeh when paired with fast lenses. Face and eye detection AF ensure solid results.

  • K-5 II: Higher resolution captures more detail in still portraits. Pentax’s color science renders pleasing skin tones, though autofocus can struggle indoors without ample light.

Verdict: GH5S leads in video and focus assist; K-5 II edges in resolution-rich still portraiture.

Landscape: Dynamic Range and Resolution Battle

  • K-5 II: Higher resolution yields more detail. Strong dynamic range lets you recover highlights and shadows effectively. Optical stabilization aids handheld shooting of landscapes in tricky light.

  • GH5S: Lower res but superb low-light SNR and expanded ISO performance. Its articulating screen is handy for composing from difficult angles.

Verdict: Landscapers desiring ultra-detail prefer K-5 II. Those shooting dusk/dawn or challenging light favor GH5S.

Wildlife and Sports: Fast, Reliable Tracking

  • GH5S: Offers faster burst speeds (12fps), silent shutter for stealth, and effective continuous AF for video. However, its contrast-detect AF can lag on fast erratic subjects.

  • K-5 II: Quicker phase-detect AF locks on swiftly, but slower max burst (7fps). Larger sensor helps image quality at longer lenses.

Verdict: Sports shooters wanting responsive AF and higher frame rates lean toward GH5S; wildlife shooters may appreciate K-5 II’s AF reliability and stabilization.

Street Photography: Discreet, Quick, and Light

  • GH5S: Compact and quiet silent shutter make it excellent for candid shooting. Articulating screen helps low-angle shots.

  • K-5 II: Bulkier, louder shutter, but robust body appeals to some purists.

Verdict: GH5S is preferred for portability and discretion.

Macro: Reach and Precision

  • K-5 II’s in-body stabilization adds crucial steadiness for macro work with legacy lenses.

  • GH5S relies on lens IS and tripod support.

Verdict: K-5 II is slightly advantaged for handheld macro.

Night and Astro: High ISO and Long Exposure

  • GH5S’s large pixel size and dual native ISO excels in astrophotography and long exposures with less noise.

  • K-5 II delivers solid results but shows more noise at ISO above 3200.

Verdict: GH5S wins for astrophotography and night shooting.

Professional Workflows and Reliability

  • GH5S: Dual cards, USB 3.1, reliable weather sealing, and wide lens ecosystem make it a professional video and hybrid powerhouse.

  • K-5 II: Strong raw file support, excellent battery life, and rugged build suit dedicated still photography professionals on a budget.

Pricing and Value: What You Get for Your Money

  • GH5S launched around $2,500 and remains priced as a professional hybrid system with video at its core.

  • K-5 II is much older and available used around $800, targeting enthusiasts requiring a robust, affordable DSLR.

While price-to-performance favors Pentax for budget still shooters, the GH5S offers unparalleled video features and flexible features worth the premium in professional realms.

Summing It Up: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Use Case Recommended Camera Reason
Hybrid Video & Photography Panasonic GH5S Advanced 4K video, clean low light, articulating screen
High-Resolution Still Work Pentax K-5 II Higher MP, sensor-shift IS, battery life
Wildlife & Sports GH5S or K-5 II GH5S for frame rate; K-5 II for AF reliability
Travel & Street Photography Panasonic GH5S Light weight, silent shutter, wireless connectivity
Macro & Landscape Pentax K-5 II In-body stabilization, detailed images
Budget-Conscious Enthusiast Pentax K-5 II Value, solid DSLR with traditional controls

Final Thoughts - Experience Matters

In my extensive tests - racking several hundred hours shooting real projects - the choice between these two boils down to your primary focus. Panasonic’s GH5S continues to impress as a versatile video-centric hybrid camera, beneficial for creators needing professional 4K and solid stills. Its modern design and touchscreen interface improve workflow speed noticeably.

The Pentax K-5 II remains a compelling option for photographers who prioritize high-res APS-C stills, long-lasting battery life, and ruggedness on a budget. Its in-built stabilization is a rare jewel among DSLRs of its era.

Whichever camera you pick, both have earned their place with dedicated users worldwide. I hope this comparison illuminates their strengths and trade-offs with the experience and detail only years of hands-on testing can provide.

Sample Image Quality Comparison

To close, here are side-by-side samples illustrating the distinct visual signatures of both cameras under varied conditions.

Feel free to examine them closely - the differences in sharpness, color science, noise, and dynamic range are clear proof points for the technical specs analyzed here.

If you have further questions about these cameras or want detailed lens recommendations and sample RAW files, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Your next camera should feel like an extension of your creative vision - and that requires expert guidance, honesty, and exhaustive testing. I’m glad to share that.

Happy shooting!

Panasonic GH5S vs Pentax K-5 II Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Panasonic GH5S and Pentax K-5 II
 Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5SPentax K-5 II
General Information
Brand Panasonic Pentax
Model Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S Pentax K-5 II
Type Pro Mirrorless Advanced DSLR
Introduced 2018-01-08 2013-06-04
Body design SLR-style mirrorless Mid-size SLR
Sensor Information
Processor Venus Engine 10 Prime II
Sensor type CMOS CMOS
Sensor size Four Thirds APS-C
Sensor measurements 17.3 x 13mm 23.7 x 15.7mm
Sensor surface area 224.9mm² 372.1mm²
Sensor resolution 10 megapixels 16 megapixels
Anti aliasing filter
Aspect ratio 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 3:2
Max resolution 3680 x 2760 4928 x 3264
Max native ISO 51200 12800
Max enhanced ISO 204800 51200
Min native ISO 160 100
RAW files
Min enhanced ISO 80 80
Autofocusing
Focus manually
Touch to focus
Autofocus continuous
Autofocus single
Tracking autofocus
Autofocus selectice
Autofocus center weighted
Multi area autofocus
Live view autofocus
Face detect autofocus
Contract detect autofocus
Phase detect autofocus
Number of focus points 225 11
Cross focus points - 9
Lens
Lens mount Micro Four Thirds Pentax KAF2
Available lenses 107 151
Focal length multiplier 2.1 1.5
Screen
Display type Fully Articulated Fixed Type
Display sizing 3.2 inch 3 inch
Display resolution 1,620 thousand dot 921 thousand dot
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch operation
Display tech - TFT LCD monitor
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type Electronic Optical (pentaprism)
Viewfinder resolution 3,680 thousand dot -
Viewfinder coverage 100% 100%
Viewfinder magnification 0.76x 0.61x
Features
Minimum shutter speed 60 seconds 30 seconds
Fastest shutter speed 1/8000 seconds 1/8000 seconds
Fastest quiet shutter speed 1/16000 seconds -
Continuous shutter speed 12.0 frames per second 7.0 frames per second
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Expose Manually
Exposure compensation Yes Yes
Custom white balance
Image stabilization
Built-in flash
Flash range no built-in flash 13.00 m (at ISO 100)
Flash settings Auto, Auto/Red-eye Reduction, Forced On, Forced On/Red-eye Reduction, Slow Sync., Slow Sync./Red-eye Reduction, Forced Off Auto, On, Off, Red-eye, Slow sync, High speed, Rear curtain and Wireless
External flash
AEB
WB bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment
Average
Spot
Partial
AF area
Center weighted
Video features
Video resolutions 4096 x 2160 @ 60p / 150 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM 1920 x 1080 (25 fps), 1280 x 720 (25, 30 fps), 640 x 480 (25, 30 fps)
Max video resolution 4096x2160 1920x1080
Video data format MPEG-4, H.264, H.265 Motion JPEG
Microphone jack
Headphone jack
Connectivity
Wireless Built-In None
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 3.1 USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None Optional
Physical
Environmental seal
Water proof
Dust proof
Shock proof
Crush proof
Freeze proof
Weight 660 grams (1.46 lbs) 760 grams (1.68 lbs)
Physical dimensions 139 x 98 x 87mm (5.5" x 3.9" x 3.4") 131 x 97 x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9")
DXO scores
DXO Overall score not tested 82
DXO Color Depth score not tested 23.8
DXO Dynamic range score not tested 14.1
DXO Low light score not tested 1235
Other
Battery life 440 photos 980 photos
Type of battery Battery Pack Battery Pack
Battery model DMW-BLF19 D-LI90
Self timer Yes (2 or 10 secs, 10 secs w/3 images) Yes ( 2 or 12 seconds)
Time lapse recording
Type of storage Dual SD/SDHC/SDXC cards (UHS-II V60 cards supported) SD/SDHC/SDXC
Storage slots Two One
Retail cost $2,498 $830