Panasonic GF1 vs Pentax K200D

Here is a in depth comparison of the Panasonic GF1 versus Pentax K200D, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the GF1 (12MP) and the K200D (10MP) is fairly well matched but the GF1 (Four Thirds) and K200D (APS-C) use totally different sensor size.

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The GF1 was introduced 14 months later than the K200D making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K200D being a Compact SLR camera.

Before going in to a thorough comparison, below is a simple summary of how the GF1 grades versus the K200D in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 & Pentax K200D. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic GF1 Gallery & Pentax K200D Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera often, you need to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic GF1 features outside measurements of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") having a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) and the Pentax K200D has sizing of 134mm x 95mm x 74mm (5.3" x 3.7" x 2.9") with a weight of 690 grams (1.52 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GF1 versus Pentax K200D in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are employing during that time. Below is the front view scale comparison of the GF1 versus the K200D.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the GF1 and K200D is 85 and 61 respectively.

Generally, it is hard to visualise the difference between sensor sizing merely by reading through a spec sheet. The graphic underneath may provide you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the GF1 and K200D.

Clearly, both the cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The GF1 having a tinier sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field harder and the Panasonic GF1 will give extra detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop pics somewhat more aggressively. The more recent GF1 will have an edge in sensor innovation.