Panasonic GH1 vs Pentax K-1

In this article, we will be analyzing the Panasonic GH1 and Pentax K-1, former is a Advanced Mirrorless while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There is a large difference among the resolutions of the GH1 (12MP) and K-1 (36MP) and the GH1 (Four Thirds) and K-1 (Full frame) possess different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The GH1 was released 7 years earlier than the K-1 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GH1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K-1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go in to a more detailed comparison, below is a quick view of how the GH1 scores versus the K-1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1 & Pentax K-1. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic GH1 Gallery & Pentax K-1 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to travel with your camera, you are going to need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GH1 offers outer measurements of 124mm x 90mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 1.8") with a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-1 has measurements of 137mm x 110mm x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") along with a weight of 1010 grams (2.23 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic GH1 and Pentax K-1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you have at that moment. Here is the front view dimensions comparison of the GH1 and the K-1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the GH1 and K-1 is 81 and 55 respectively.

Generally, it is hard to imagine the difference in sensor dimensions merely by viewing technical specs. The pic below might offer you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the GH1 and K-1.

As you can tell, each of the cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The GH1 due to its smaller sensor is going to make getting bokeh tougher and the Pentax K-1 will render extra detail as a result of its extra 24MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged GH1 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.