Panasonic GF8 vs Pentax RS1500

Let's look closer at the Panasonic GF8 versus Pentax RS1500, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the GF8 (16MP) and the RS1500 (14MP) is pretty close but the GF8 (Four Thirds) and RS1500 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The GF8 was brought out 4 years after the RS1500 which is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic GF8 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax RS1500 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight into a detailed comparison, below is a simple summary of how the GF8 matches up vs the RS1500 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF8 and Pentax Optio RS1500. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic GF8 Gallery and Pentax RS1500 Gallery.

If you're planning to travel with your camera frequently, you will want to take into account 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 RS1500 has measurements of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic GF8 versus Pentax RS1500 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are working with during that time. Underneath is the front view proportions comparison of the GF8 compared to the RS1500.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the GF8 and RS1500 is 90 and 93 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to see the gap in sensor dimensions merely by looking through a spec sheet. The pic underneath will help offer you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the GF8 and RS1500.

Clearly, the two cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The GF8 due to its bigger sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field easier and the Panasonic GF8 will render more detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots much more aggressively. The fresher GF8 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.