Panasonic GF6 vs Pentax 645Z

Its time to look a bit more closely at the Panasonic GF6 and Pentax 645Z, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Pro DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a noticeable gap between the image resolutions of the GF6 (16MP) and 645Z (51MP) and the GF6 (Four Thirds) and 645Z (Medium format) provide different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The GF6 was revealed 12 months earlier than the 645Z so they are both of a similar age. Both cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic GF6 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax 645Z being a Large SLR camera.

Before diving into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the GF6 scores vs the 645Z in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF6 & Pentax 645Z. The full galleries are available at Panasonic GF6 Gallery & Pentax 645Z Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera, you'll have to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic GF6 offers outer measurements of 111mm x 65mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.5") along with a weight of 323 grams (0.71 lbs) and the Pentax 645Z has specifications of 156mm x 117mm x 123mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.8") accompanied by a weight of 1550 grams (3.42 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic GF6 and Pentax 645Z in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are using during that time. Below is a front view sizing comparison of the GF6 compared to the 645Z.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the GF6 and 645Z is 87 and 49 respectively.

More often than not, it is very difficult to picture the contrast between sensor sizing just by reading through a spec sheet. The photograph underneath may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the GF6 and 645Z.

Clearly, both the cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The GF6 having a tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF harder and the Pentax 645Z will resolve more detail because of its extra 35 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The older GF6 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.