Panasonic Lumix G95 vs Pentax K-r: An In-Depth Camera Comparison for Photographers

When selecting a camera, photographers are often drawn to the specs on paper - but real-world experience exposes nuances you just can't glean from datasheets alone. Over my 15+ years testing thousands of cameras across genres, I’ve learned that understanding how a camera performs in everyday shooting environments makes all the difference. Today, I’ll share my comprehensive hands-on comparison between two intriguing choices from very different eras and systems: the Panasonic Lumix G95, a modern Micro Four Thirds mirrorless all-rounder from 2019, and the Pentax K-r, a decade-old APS-C DSLR aimed at entry-level photographers.

These cameras represent different technological generations, philosophies, and target users. By walking through key usage scenarios, technical parameters, and user experience factors, I want to help you figure out which is best suited to your photographic style, budget, and aspirations. Whether drawn to quiet mirrorless shooting or the tactile feel of an optical viewfinder, this comparison covers the full landscape.

First, Let's See the Physical Differences Up Close

Before diving into specs and performance, camera ergonomics and handling set the initial tone for your shooting experience. I always start with side-by-side physical comparisons because the size, weight, and button layout often influence long-term comfort and workflow.

The Panasonic G95 has a classic DSLR-style body but remains surprisingly compact and lightweight at 536 grams, thanks to its mirrorless design and Micro Four Thirds sensor. Its dimensions (130 x 94 x 77 mm) make it portable without feeling toy-like. The G95 features a thoughtfully sculpted grip that fits my hand well and offers intuitive button placement, including a fully articulated touchscreen on the rear.

In contrast, the Pentax K-r - at 598 grams and a slightly chunkier 125 x 97 x 68 mm - is a traditional DSLR with pentamirror optical viewfinder and a fixed 3-inch LCD. Its build feels rugged but less refined ergonomically. The larger size is partly due to older tech and the APS-C sensor, but it still feels heavier and more bulky in long handheld sessions.

My takeaway: if portability and modern comfort matter, the leaner G95 takes the lead. For photographers who love a solid, familiar DSLR grip and optical viewfinder feedback, the K-r feels more substantial though slightly dated in design.

Top Controls and User Interface: A Quick Peek at Handling

The button and dial layout affects how intuitively you can change settings on the fly - critical for dynamic shooting environments like weddings or wildlife.

The Lumix G95 impresses here with a modern command dial setup and well-placed customizable buttons. Exposure compensation dial, mode dial, and a dedicated video record button coexist without clutter. Its touchscreen interface also allows quick focus point shifts and menu navigation, a boon for users juggling settings quickly.

The Pentax K-r holds to classical DSLR controls: a mode dial with fewer options, less customization, and no touchscreen. Mechanical dials and buttons feel durable but mean diving through menus for some functions. One strength: the K-r includes an in-viewfinder LCD for quick ISO, shutter speed, and aperture reading - a useful feature for manual shooters.

If you value speedy touchscreen navigation and customizable controls, the G95 pulls ahead here. But for pure DSLR traditionalists, the K-r's tactile feedback is timeless.

Two Very Different Sensors: Size, Resolution, and Image Quality

Sensor technology shapes the fundamental image quality. The G95’s 20.3MP Four Thirds sensor faces off against the K-r’s 12.4MP APS-C sensor, bringing key measurable differences.

Panasonic Lumix G95:

• Sensor size: Four Thirds (17.3 x 13.0mm; 224.9 mm²)
• Resolution: 20.3MP (5184 x 3888)
• Native ISO: 200–25600
• No anti-aliasing filter for sharper images
• Sensor-based 5-axis image stabilization (IBIS) built into the body

Pentax K-r:

• Sensor size: APS-C (23.6 x 15.8mm; 372.9 mm²)
• Resolution: 12.4MP (4288 x 2848)
• Native ISO: 200–12800 (expandable to 25600)
• Anti-aliasing filter present
• Sensor-based stabilization, but more limited than IBIS systems today

While the larger APS-C sensor naturally gathers more light and exhibits less noise at high ISO when comparing generational peers, the G95’s lack of an anti-aliasing filter helps produce sharper detail. Moreover, the G95 benefits from modern sensor design and processing that narrows the low-light and dynamic range gap - even though it has fewer square millimeters.

In practical terms, this means the G95 can deliver more detailed and stabilized handheld shots with less motion blur, especially in video or lower light. The K-r’s sensor area advantage gives it better noise resilience and smoother tonal gradations at base ISOs, useful for landscape and studio portraiture where ISO can be kept low.

Viewing Mediums: Electronic vs Optical Viewfinders and Screens

Eye-level viewing affects how you shoot, day or night, especially during action or bright situations.

The Lumix G95 offers a 2.36M-dot electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 100% coverage and 0.74x magnification. Its EVF preview allows immediate feedback on exposure, white balance, and depth of field, enabling confident shooting with instant adjustments. The fully articulated 3-inch 1240K-dot touchscreen is bright and responsive - a big help for creative angles and video work.

Conversely, the Pentax K-r relies on a 0.57x magnification optical pentamirror viewfinder with 96% coverage - typical for DSLRs of its class. There's no electronic preview of exposure; you rely on your experience and a top-panel display for exposure readout. The 3-inch fixed LCD has lower resolution (921K dots) and no touchscreen capability, limiting on-the-go menu tweaks. Optical viewfinders do, however, excel in situations where power conservation or lag-free viewing is paramount.

From personal experience, the G95’s EVF and articulated touchscreen enhance flexibility and confidence for novice and advanced shooters alike, especially when exploring challenging lighting or angles. The K-r’s optical finder appeals to photographers who value pixel-perfect clarity and lag-free view but demands more know-how to expose correctly in-camera.

Image Samples Reveal Practical Differences in Shooting

Let’s ground this in real-life image quality comparisons. I shot numerous scenes with both cameras, including portraits, landscapes, and dynamic subjects.

Panasonic G95 front Panasonic G95 screen back Pentax K r screen back

In studio portraits, the K-r’s larger sensor renders skin tones and smooth gradients subtly with minimal noise at ISO 200, while the Panasonic G95 handles color vibrancy and sharpness superbly with its newer sensor and image processor, delivering punchier detail without heavy noise suppression.

For landscapes, the G95’s higher resolution and 5-axis stabilization allowed me to handhold crisp shots with greater dynamic range, especially useful in HDR and focus stacking scenarios it supports natively. The K-r produces beautiful clean files but benefits most from a stable tripod.

In wildlife and sports, the G95’s faster burst rate (9 fps vs 6 fps) and live autofocus tracking gave a clear edge in capturing peak action moments, although lens availability favors Pentax’s telephoto options for reach.

Tackling Autofocus: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Autofocus remains a critical differentiator for many buyers, particularly in wildlife, sports, or fast-paced street scenarios.

• Lumix G95 uses contrast-detection AF with 49 focus points and face detection; no phase detection pixels.
• Pentax K-r employs hybrid autofocus with 11 focus points and phase detection sensors on the DSLR mirror.

Having tested both extensively, the G95 offers fast and quiet AF in good light, plus continuous AF and subject tracking effective for video and stills. Its autofocus is noticeably improved from its predecessor, especially in live view - ideal for video shooters and stills shooters needing flicker-free AF during streaming or 4K video.

The K-r’s phase-detection AF is reliable for stills in varied conditions, though it can struggle in low light and live view mode due to older sensor tech. It lacks advanced face or eye detection features found in the G95.

For subjects in motion, the G95’s superior frame rate and AF responsiveness provide a more satisfying capture experience, especially in continuous shooting modes.

Building for the Elements: Durability and Weather Sealing

Outdoor photographers need gear that can shrug off weather and rough handling.

The Panasonic G95 includes environmental sealing - a rare feature in this price bracket - that offers splash and dust resistance, ideal for field photographers braving inclement conditions.

Meanwhile, the Pentax K-r does not officially feature weather sealing, despite the brand’s reputation for ruggedness in higher-end models. This makes the K-r less suitable for demanding environments without added protection.

If you shoot outdoors regularly - landscape, wildlife, travel - the G95’s sealing offers peace of mind and longevity.

Video: Panasonic G95 Dominates in Moving Image

For photographers increasingly crossing into video, the G95’s capabilities are far ahead of the K-r.

• G95 captures 4K UHD video at 30p with 100 Mbps throughput, plus Full HD at higher frame rates. It includes 4K Photo mode for extracting high-res stills from video clips and dual microphone/headphone input jacks for professional audio control.
• K-r is limited to 720p at 25fps, Motion JPEG format, no external mic or headphone ports, and minimal video controls.

In practice, the G95’s stabilized sensor enables smooth handheld footage without expensive gimbals. It also offers articulated screen flexibility for vlogging and creative angles.

The K-r’s video mode feels rudimentary today - usable only for casual recording. Serious videographers should look elsewhere.

Macro and Close-Up Photography

Macro shooting demands high focusing precision and often stabilization to capture crisp details.

The G95 supports focus bracketing, focus stacking, and post-focus modes, features not matched by the K-r. Its in-body stabilization also helps handheld macro work without blur.

The Pentax K-r relies primarily on lens-based stabilization and manual focus precision. Its traditional DSLR focusing screen helps some users with critical manual focusing, but lacks stacking tools.

For botanical, insect, or product photography, I found the G95’s advanced macro modes provide greater creative freedom and ease.

Battery Life and Storage: Usability on the Go

Battery endurance and media options affect workflows on long shoots and travel.

• The Pentax K-r excels in longevity with approximately 470 shots per charge, partly due to simpler electronics and no EVF power draw. It uses D-LI109 batteries or 4 x AA, which are widely available outdoors.
• The Panasonic G95 offers around 290 shots per charge - typical for mirrorless systems reliant on EVF and touchscreen. It supports rapid USB charging but requires spares for extended sessions.

Both cameras use SD cards, but the G95 supports faster UHS-II cards - beneficial for 4K video and fast burst shooting.

My advice: If frequent recharging worries you, the K-r’s stamina is a strength. For mixed photo/video trips, carry multiple batteries for the G95.

Connectivity and Workflow Integration

Today’s photographers expect wireless features for instant sharing and remote control.

• The G95 includes built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, enabling remote shooting via smartphone apps, quick image transfer, and firmware updates - a big efficiency boost for event and social photographers.
• The K-r offers no built-in wireless connectivity. Options require third-party accessories, which are increasingly cumbersome.

This modern connectivity tilts the scales in favor of the G95 for users balancing social media demands and collaborative workflows.

Price-to-Performance: Balancing Cost with Capability

At the time of writing, these cameras reflect a significant price and vintage gap:

• Panasonic G95: ~$998 new
• Pentax K-r: ~$1100 used, new models obsolete

The G95 offers contemporary features, futureproof video modes, and advanced autofocus at a competitive price point.

The K-r, primarily found used, provides affordable APS-C image quality with DSLR ergonomics but lacks modern conveniences.

If budget is your main criterion and you prefer optical viewfinders, the K-r provides solid value if you can find one well maintained.

How They Perform Across Popular Photography Genres

Every photographer’s needs differ; here’s how these models compare by discipline:

• Portraits: G95 wins with sharper detail, effective face detection, and pleasing bokeh from Micro Four Thirds lenses; K-r’s larger sensor grants subtle gradation.
• Landscapes: Both excel, but G95’s better dynamic range and stacking aids edge it ahead. Weather sealing also supports outdoor shooting.
• Wildlife: G95’s burst speed and AF are superior, though K-r’s native lens selection offers longer reach.
• Sports: G95’s continuous shooting and tracking vastly outperform the K-r.
• Street: G95’s compactness and silent shutter suit discreet shooting better; K-r’s DSLR bulk feels more conspicuous.
• Macro: Panasonic’s focus stacking and IBIS offer creative advantages.
• Night/Astro: K-r’s sensor size helps low noise, but G95’s stabilization and ISO range provide practical versatility.
• Video: Clear win for Panasonic’s 4K and stabilization.
• Travel: G95’s size, connectivity, and weather sealing offer best all-round versatility.
• Professional Use: G95 supports professional workflows with dual mic/headphone jacks, raw formats, and flexibility; K-r is mostly outdated here.

Overall Performance Ratings Based on Hands-On Testing

After rigorous practical testing and benchmark analysis, here is the general consensus on core performance:

The Panasonic Lumix G95 emerges as the more balanced, feature-rich camera, especially suited to hybrid photo/video creators and travelers needing an all-around capable system. Its evolution over prior models and solid feature set provides dependable flexibility.

The Pentax K-r is respectable for entry-level DSLR users seeking budget-friendly, proven APS-C photography and optical viewfinder experience, but it shows its age and limited versatility, especially for video and connectivity.

Final Thoughts: Which Camera Fits Your Needs Best?

Both Panasonic G95 and Pentax K-r have their merits, but your choice depends on priorities:

• Choose the Panasonic Lumix G95 if you:

  • Want a versatile mirrorless camera with strong video capabilities
  • Need modern autofocus with face detection and tracking
  • Value weather sealing and a compact body
  • Prefer an EVF and articulated touchscreen for creative framing
  • Expect to shoot hybrid stills and 4K video
  • Seek high-speed burst with image stabilization for active shooting
  • Desire wireless connectivity for faster sharing and remote control

• Choose the Pentax K-r if you:

  • Prefer the tactile DSLR experience and optical viewfinder
  • Prioritize battery life and classical photographic discipline
  • Are budget-conscious and find a good used model
  • Focus mostly on still photography without modern video or wireless needs
  • Appreciate the richer color gradation and noise performance of APS-C sensor
  • Value a lens ecosystem that includes legacy Pentax glass

My Parting Advice

Having tested both inside and out, I feel the Panasonic G95 provides a more forward-looking, flexible platform accommodating a wide spectrum of photography styles without feeling overcomplicated. It’s my recommended choice for enthusiasts stepping up from entry-level gear or pros favoring mirrorless mobility.

The Pentax K-r, though older, holds nostalgic and budget appeal, especially for those who love optical viewfinders and DSLR ergonomics, provided you don’t need cutting-edge video or wireless features.

Whichever you pick, invest in quality lenses and dedicate time to mastering your camera’s strengths - that's how you truly unlock photographic potential.

I hope this detailed comparison helps you navigate the trade-offs between these two cameras thoughtfully. If you have questions about specific setups or want shooting tips tailored to your style, feel free to reach out - I’m always eager to share insights from my fieldwork and testing bench. Happy shooting!