Panasonic GF2 vs Pentax K-5 II

On this page, we will be evaluating the Panasonic GF2 versus Pentax K-5 II, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a significant gap between the image resolutions of the GF2 (12MP) and K-5 II (16MP) and the GF2 (Four Thirds) and K-5 II (APS-C) have totally different sensor size.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The GF2 was unveiled 3 years before the K-5 II which is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Panasonic GF2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K-5 II being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise overview of how the GF2 grades against the K-5 II for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 and Pentax K-5 II. The full galleries are available at Panasonic GF2 Gallery and Pentax K-5 II Gallery.

When you are intending to carry around your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GF2 provides exterior dimensions of 113mm x 68mm x 33mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.3") along with a weight of 310 grams (0.68 lbs) and the Pentax K-5 II has dimensions of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") having a weight of 760 grams (1.68 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic GF2 versus Pentax K-5 II in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the GF2 and the K-5 II.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the GF2 and K-5 II is 88 and 60 respectively.

Normally, it is very difficult to envision the difference between sensor sizes purely by reading technical specs. The pic underneath might give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the GF2 and K-5 II.

As you can tell, each of the cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The GF2 having a tinier sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field more difficult and the Pentax K-5 II will offer extra detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The more aged GF2 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.