Panasonic G95 vs Pentax K-01: A Hands-On Mirrorless Camera Showdown for Photography Enthusiasts

When it comes to mirrorless cameras, the choices can feel endless, and wading through specs sheets can be daunting even for seasoned photographers. Today, I’m diving into a thorough, no-nonsense comparison between two intriguingly different mirrorless options from Panasonic and Pentax: the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G95 (G90/ G95) and the Pentax K-01. Both cameras offer SLR-style mirrorless bodies, but where the G95 is a well-rounded, modern Micro Four Thirds system camera aimed at hybrid shooters, the K-01 is a quirky, APS-C entry-level model that’s been polarizing since its 2012 launch.

After putting both cameras through their paces in everything from landscape vistas to fast-action sports, I’m here to unpack how they stack up in the real world - beyond mere promotional hype. From sensor technology to autofocus, ergonomics to video chops, plus image quality and value - this article spills the beans.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Handling

On paper, both cameras sport the classic DSLR-style mirrorless chassis, but their feel in hand couldn’t be more different. The Panasonic G95, at 130 x 94 x 77mm and 536g, strikes a well-balanced chord - it’s compact by enthusiast standards but with enough heft and grip for comfortable shooting over extended walks or shoots. The Pentax K-01, measuring a compact 122 x 79 x 58mm but weighing a tick heavier at 561g, feels surprisingly dense for its size, partly due to its all-metal build, which lends it a unique industrial heft that some love, others find clunky.

The G95 enjoys weather sealing, a crucial feature for outdoor and landscape photographers paranoid about a sudden drizzle or dusty trail, while the K-01 leaves you more at the mercy of the elements. If you’re like me, who frequently shoots outdoors, this can be a dealbreaker.

In terms of control layout and interface, the G95 really shines with a modern command dial setup and a fully articulated 3” touchscreen, making creative angles and menu navigation a breeze. The K-01 sticks to a fixed 3” TFT LCD without touch functionality, which - while adequate - feels outdated today, especially if you’re used to intuitive touch controls.

Sensor and Image Quality: Micro Four Thirds vs APS-C

At the heart of every camera is the sensor, and here things get interesting. Panasonic G95 houses a 20.3MP Four Thirds CMOS sensor sized at 17.3x13mm, while the Pentax K-01 packs a larger 16MP APS-C CMOS sensor at 23.7x15.7mm.

Why does size matter? Generally, the bigger the sensor, the better the image quality potential, particularly in low light and dynamic range. The APS-C sensor in the K-01 offers roughly 65% more surface area than the Four Thirds sensor - translating to increased light gathering and noise performance benefits.

But Panasonic compensates with newer image processing tech - its Venus Engine has matured through several generations, delivering excellent color rendering and noise control for the m43 format. The G95 also foregoes an anti-aliasing filter, allowing for slightly crisper images at the risk of possible moiré, a choice I appreciate for landscape and studio work.

The K-01, on the other hand, retains an anti-aliasing filter, slightly softening fine detail but reducing artifacts. Its DxO Mark scores (overall 79, color depth of 23.7 bits, dynamic range 12.9 EV, and low-light sensitivity ISO 1135) reflect solid APS-C performance from the era - a benchmark still respectable for many photography purposes.

In real-world daylight landscapes, the K-01’s files show more natural tonal gradation and less noise from ISO 400-800 than the G95. But the G95 steps up in higher ISOs with cleaner output, especially beyond ISO 1600, thanks to superior noise reduction algorithms. For portrait skin tones, the G95’s color science produces punchier but still natural skin tones, while the K-01’s flatter profile might require more post-processing finesse.

Autofocus Systems: Speed, Accuracy, and Usability

Autofocus (AF) can make or break your shoot, especially when capturing moving subjects or fleeting moments.

The Panasonic G95 features a contrast-detection AF with 49 focus points, covering the majority of the frame, plus augmented face detection and tracking capabilities. It lacks phase-detection AF but compensates with faster processing and on-sensor depth mapping. The G95 offers continuous AF tracking up to 9fps burst shooting - respectable for a hybrid shooter balancing stills and video.

By contrast, the Pentax K-01 boasts more AF points - 81 contrast-detection points - though lacking face detection and without phase-detection elements. Unfortunately, its AF system, while decent for still subjects, falls short with moving targets - slow to respond and prone to “hunting” indoors or in low contrast.

During field testing, wildlife and sports shooting showed the G95’s continuous AF to be faster and more reliable, retaining focus on subjects amidst erratic motion. The K-01’s burst cap tops at 6fps, which feels sluggish for fast action. The lack of animal eye detection and advanced tracking on both limits their appeal for severe wildlife shooters, though the G95’s better processing lends it an edge.

Ergonomics and Interface: How Does It Feel to Shoot?

Ergonomics and user interface are often overlooked but make a huge difference, especially over long sessions.

Panasonic’s G95 wins with its fully articulated, high-resolution touchscreen that supports touch-to-focus and intuitive menu navigation - qualities that modern hybrid shooters adore for both stills and video. The rear joystick and configurable buttons offer personalized control schemes, making it easier to change ISO, white balance, or autofocus mode on the fly.

The Pentax K-01’s fixed rear LCD, no touch capability, and minimal button illumination put it behind the times. Its minimalist button layout isn’t unintuitive but requires more manual menu digging, which interrupts flow. The lack of an electronic viewfinder, relying solely on the LCD, is also a significant drawback for bright outdoor shooting or precise framing.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: The Heart of the System

Panasonic’s Micro Four Thirds mount is one of the most versatile systems on the market, flaunting over 107 native lenses and third-party options from Olympus, Sigma, Tamron, and more. That breadth covers everything from ultra-wide landscapes to super-tele zooms, plus excellent macro and portrait primes - a boon for photographers who want freedom in their glass.

The Pentax K-01 uses the Pentax KAF2 mount, compatible with many Pentax DSLR lenses, totaling over 151 lenses, a surprising strength for such a niche mirrorless design. However, these are primarily DSLR optics that weren’t designed for the shorter flange distance of mirrorless, causing some usability quirks (notably autofocus speed and size). Nevertheless, the Pentax lens lineup includes stellar primes and legendary weather-sealed zooms beloved by Pentax fans.

If lens choice and adaptability matter - and they usually do - Panasonic’s Micro Four Thirds system’s modern design gives it a distinct advantage in lens compactness, autofocus speed, and optical stabilization on many lenses. Yet for Pentax loyalists or budget photographers eyeing legacy glass, the K-01 still holds value.

Performance Across Photography Genres: Who’s Best For What?

Let's break down how these two cameras perform in various photography disciplines based on my hands-on testing.

Portrait Photography: Getting Skin Tones and Bokeh Right

The G95’s higher native ISO ceiling (up to 25600) combined with no AA filter delivers more vibrant images - important for skin tone nuance and sharpness. Its 5-axis in-body IS helps reduce blur in low light. The Micro Four Thirds lenses' faster apertures (like f/1.4 primes) yield smoother bokeh on the G95, although not as creamy as larger sensor offerings. Panasonic’s face detection autofocus, while not perfect, consistently locks on eyes for sharp portraits.

The K-01 has respectable portrait chops given its APS-C sensor but chain together slower kit lenses and it becomes clear you may need external lenses to achieve pleasing background separation. Its lack of eye detection autofocus means more manual focus finesse is necessary, but the larger sensor area does help produce shallower depth of field more naturally.

Landscape Photography: Resolution, Dynamic Range, and Weather Sealing

Here the K-01's larger APS-C sensor and respectable 16MP resolution deliver files that hold impressive detail and tonal gradation, especially under challenging lighting. However, no weather sealing reduces versatility for outdoor adventure shooters.

The G95's newer sensor, absence of AA filter, and Venus Engine combine for stunning sharp images and vibrant colors in landscapes. Plus, its sealed body gives it an edge in rugged conditions. The 20.3MP resolution also allows nice cropping freedom. Panasonic's focus stacking and bracketing modes add flexibility for HDR and macro-landscape combos.

Wildlife Photography: Autofocus Speed, Burst Rate, and Reach

Neither camera is a wildlife powerhouse, but the G95's faster 9fps burst and more sophisticated AF give it an edge for birding or common wildlife shots. Telephoto Olympus or Panasonic lenses with OIS complement its system well.

The K-01's 6fps burst and less responsive focus make tight or fast wildlife shots challenging. It shines more for casual wildlife or static subjects.

Sports Photography: Tracking and Low Light Responsiveness

The G95 can handle moderate sports action indoors or dusk conditions better thanks to boosted ISO options and AF tracking. Though comparably slower than flagship mirrorless bodies, it manages some fast movement.

The K-01’s AF speed and lower ISO ceiling limit its sports potential - think leisurely basketball games, not pro tournament coverage.

Street Photography: Discreteness and Portability

The Pentax K-01’s smaller profile and simpler interface allow a degree of stealth - although, ironically, its unusual blocky design might attract attention on urban streets. The fixed LCD and lack of EVF might slow discreet shooting in bright sunlight.

The G95’s articulated screen can hinder stealth in some cases, but its balanced size and modern control layout feel more intuitive. Its low-light ISO performance makes shooting at dusk or nighttime streets more accessible.

Macro Photography: Precision and Stabilization

Panasonic G95’s sensor-based 5-axis stabilization combined with focus bracketing and stacking features make it a great choice for macro enthusiasts. Plus, Panasonic’s stellar 30-60mm macro zoom lenses expand creative possibilities.

The K-01 lacks built-in stabilization and macro-specific features but benefits from the option of mounting Pentax’s renowned macro primes. Still, lack of focus stacking will limit professional macro work.

Night and Astro Photography: High ISO and Exposure Controls

The G95’s clean high ISO handling and electronic shutter speeds up to 1/16000s enable longer exposures without star trails or light bleeding, ideal for night sky shooting. Its built-in intervalometer helps time-lapse astrophotographers.

The K-01 manages respectable long exposures up to 30 seconds but struggles with noise above ISO 1600, and no silent electronic shutter limits astro shooting finesse.

Video Capabilities: Resolution, Stabilization, and Audio Inputs

Panasonic, with its video heritage, unsurprisingly dominates here. The G95 records 4K UHD at 30p with 100 Mbps bit rate, plus 4K photo modes - perfect for hybrid shooters wanting high-quality video and stills from one body. It has microphone and headphone jacks for serious audio control, and in-body stabilization ensures steady handheld footage.

The K-01 tops out at 1080p 30fps and lacks headphone output, making video a secondary feature at best.

Travel Photography: Battery Life, Weight, and Versatility

Battery life-wise, the K-01 surprisingly offers about 540 shots per charge, outlasting the G95’s rated 290 shots - a big plus on trips without spare batteries. However, Panasonic’s weight and weather sealing make the G95 a more versatile companion, while its touchscreen and quick autofocus ensure you don’t miss spontaneous moments.

Professional Considerations: Workflow Integration and Reliability

Both cameras shoot RAW, but the G95's files enjoy wider RAW converter support and compatibility with advanced editing software, which professionals rely on. Pentax’s files might require legacy tools, slowing workflow.

Panasonic’s dual UHS-II card support (in some G95 variants) and widespread USB-C charging and tethering options boost studio and on-location flexibility, while the K-01’s USB 2.0 and single UHS-I slot feel dated.

Build quality-wise, the G95’s sealed magnesium alloy body inspires confidence for pro use; the K-01’s all-metal but non-sealed construction leans more towards durable hobbyist use.

Panasonic G95 front Panasonic G95 screen back Pentax K 01 front Pentax K 01 screen back

Connectivity, Wireless Features, and Storage

Panasonic’s G95 includes built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, enabling wireless image transfer, remote control, and smartphone integration. This modern convenience helps with instant sharing and remote shooting - a boon for social media-savvy shooters.

The K-01 offers none of that - no Wi-Fi, no Bluetooth, no NFC - so it’s tethered to traditional card transfers and cables, a frustration for today’s fast workflows.

Both cameras accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, but with faster UHS-II support, the G95 better handles large 4K video files and rapid bursts.

Price-to-Performance Ratio: What’s the Real Value?

At around $998 USD for the Panasonic G95 and $899 for the Pentax K-01, the price gap isn’t vast, but the feature disparity is.

The G95 packs contemporary features, stronger video support, and better overall versatility, offering great value for hybrid shooters or those wanting a serious all-rounder.

The K-01, although older and feature-limited, might appeal to budget-conscious enthusiasts or Pentax brand followers seeking APS-C image quality with access to a vast lens lineup. Its quirky design and solid ergonomics might also find fans who appreciate something different from the norm.

Final Take: Who Should Consider Each Camera?

Choose the Panasonic G95 if you:

• Want a reliable, weather-sealed, hybrid mirrorless body for photos and 4K video
• Value fast contrast-detection AF with face detection and good burst speed
• Appreciate a fully articulated touchscreen and modern wireless connectivity
• Need versatile lens options across Micro Four Thirds partners
• Shoot landscapes, portraits, macro, and travel photography regularly
• Demand better high-ISO and video performance

Opt for the Pentax K-01 if you:

• Are starting out and want a budget-friendly APS-C mirrorless camera with DSLR lens compatibility
• Prefer sturdier metal build and don’t mind lack of weather sealing
• Need longer battery life for extended sessions without charging
• Are okay with slower AF and fixed, non-touch LCD
• Desire access to a vast Pentax legacy lens ecosystem, even if somewhat clunky on mirrorless
• Shoot mostly static subjects, landscapes, or casual street photography with careful manual control

My Personal Verdict as a Veteran Reviewer

Having extensively tested both cameras under varied conditions, the Panasonic G95 clearly offers a more contemporary, feature-rich experience with a better balance of image quality, autofocus, and usability, especially for hybrid shooters who mix stills and video. It’s a dependable choice for enthusiasts ready to embrace modern workflows without the steep price of top-tier models.

The Pentax K-01, meanwhile, retains charm as a niche, beginner-friendly APS-C mirrorless that rewards those comfortable working around its limitations and those loyal to the Pentax lens heritage. If you shoot mostly still subjects and prioritize battery life and solid image quality on a tight budget, it’s worth a look.

But for anyone looking for a versatile, future-proof system for a broad range of photography styles - especially outdoor, action, or video-heavy work - the G95 is a smarter bet. It’s like having a Swiss Army knife with a few extra blades, while the K-01 is more a trusty pocket knife - it gets the job done, but with fewer frills.

Whichever you choose, knowing your shooting style and priorities will guide you best. Cameras are tools, after all - and the best one is the one that inspires you to create.

Thanks for reading - if you want to dive deeper into any specific photographic genre or feature comparison, just let me know. Until next time, happy shooting!