Panasonic FH8 vs Pentax K-5

On this page, we are reviewing the Panasonic FH8 versus Pentax K-5, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Advanced DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the FH8 (16MP) and the K-5 (16MP) is very close but the FH8 (1/2.3") and K-5 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor size.

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The FH8 was manufactured 13 months later than the K-5 making them a generation apart from each other. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FH8 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-5 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving into a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief summation of how the FH8 grades against the K-5 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8 & Pentax K-5. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH8 Gallery & Pentax K-5 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry your camera regularly, you should take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic FH8 comes with exterior measurements of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") and a weight of 123 grams (0.27 lbs) while the Pentax K-5 has specifications of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") with a weight of 740 grams (1.63 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FH8 versus Pentax K-5 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are employing at that moment. The following is a front view overall size comparison of the FH8 compared to the K-5.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the FH8 and K-5 is 96 and 60 respectively.

Usually, it is very difficult to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing purely by viewing technical specs. The visual below might offer you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the FH8 and K-5.

As you can tell, the two cameras provide the same resolution but not the same sensor sizing. The FH8 has the smaller sensor which will make obtaining bokeh tougher. The more recent FH8 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.