Panasonic G3 vs Pentax K-1

Here is a in depth overview of the Panasonic G3 and Pentax K-1, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a huge gap among the image resolutions of the G3 (16MP) and K-1 (36MP) and the G3 (Four Thirds) and K-1 (Full frame) provide totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The G3 was brought out 5 years before the K-1 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic G3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K-1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go straight to a thorough comparison, here is a brief summary of how the G3 scores against the K-1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 and Pentax K-1. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic G3 Gallery and Pentax K-1 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera, you should consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic G3 offers exterior dimensions of 115mm x 84mm x 47mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 1.9") and a weight of 336 grams (0.74 lbs) while the Pentax K-1 has measurements of 137mm x 110mm x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") having a weight of 1010 grams (2.23 lbs).

Check the Panasonic G3 and Pentax K-1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are using at the time. Here is a front view measurements comparison of the G3 and the K-1.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the G3 and K-1 is 83 and 55 respectively.

Sometimes, it's difficult to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing just by going through a spec sheet. The visual below should give you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the G3 and K-1.

Clearly, both of the cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The G3 because of its smaller sensor will make getting shallow depth of field more difficult and the Pentax K-1 will produce greater detail having its extra 20 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The older G3 will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.