Panasonic GF5 vs Pentax E85

Its time to examine more closely at the Panasonic GF5 and Pentax E85, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the GF5 (12MP) and the E85 (12MP) is very well matched but the GF5 (Four Thirds) and E85 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor size.

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The GF5 was unveiled 2 years after the E85 which is quite a serious difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GF5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax E85 being a Compact camera.

Before going through a full comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the GF5 grades versus the E85 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5 & Pentax Optio E85. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic GF5 Gallery & Pentax E85 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you'll have to factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GF5 enjoys physical measurements of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") along with a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs) and the Pentax E85 has proportions of 93mm x 58mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.3" x 0.9") with a weight of 145 grams (0.32 lbs).

See the Panasonic GF5 and Pentax E85 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you have during that time. Below is the front view size comparison of the GF5 vs the E85.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the GF5 and E85 is 89 and 95 respectively.

Typically, it is hard to see the contrast between sensor sizes purely by looking at technical specs. The pic here may give you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the GF5 and E85.

As you have seen, both of those cameras offer the same exact megapixel count but not the same sensor sizes. The GF5 includes the larger sensor which is going to make achieving shallower DOF easier. The fresher GF5 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.