Panasonic GF8 vs Pentax K-5

Lets look closer at the Panasonic GF8 versus Pentax K-5, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the GF8 (16MP) and the K-5 (16MP) is relatively comparable but the GF8 (Four Thirds) and K-5 (APS-C) offer different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The GF8 was brought out 5 years later than the K-5 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic GF8 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K-5 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the GF8 grades versus the K-5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF8 and Pentax K-5. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic GF8 Gallery and Pentax K-5 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to lug around your camera often, you are going to need to consider its weight and size. The Panasonic GF8 offers outer dimensions of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") and a weight of 266 grams (0.59 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-5 has specifications of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") accompanied by a weight of 740 grams (1.63 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GF8 versus Pentax K-5 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are working with at that time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the GF8 and the K-5.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the GF8 and K-5 is 90 and 60 respectively.

In many cases, it's hard to picture the gap in sensor measurements purely by seeing technical specs. The photograph below should provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the GF8 and K-5.

As you have seen, both of the cameras feature the identical MP albeit different sensor measurements. The GF8 uses the smaller sensor which will make achieving shallower DOF harder. The fresher GF8 provides a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.