Panasonic GF8 vs Pentax K-S2

Let's look closer at the Panasonic GF8 vs Pentax K-S2, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the GF8 (16MP) and the K-S2 (20MP) is pretty well matched but the GF8 (Four Thirds) and K-S2 (APS-C) enjoy totally different sensor sizing.

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The GF8 was released 13 months later than the K-S2 which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic GF8 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K-S2 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before going in to a more detailed comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the GF8 grades versus the K-S2 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF8 & Pentax K-S2. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic GF8 Gallery & Pentax K-S2 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry your camera frequently, you will have to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GF8 enjoys exterior dimensions of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") with a weight of 266 grams (0.59 lbs) and the Pentax K-S2 has measurements of 123mm x 91mm x 73mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 2.9") and a weight of 678 grams (1.49 lbs).

See the Panasonic GF8 vs Pentax K-S2 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you select at that time. Underneath is the front view measurement comparison of the GF8 versus the K-S2.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the GF8 and K-S2 is 90 and 64 respectively.

Quite often, it's tough to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing only by reading through a spec sheet. The graphic underneath should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the GF8 and K-S2.

As you can see, both of those cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The GF8 because of its tinier sensor will make shooting shallower DOF more difficult and the Pentax K-S2 will give extra detail as a result of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop pictures much more aggressively. The more recent GF8 will have an edge in sensor tech.