Panasonic GH1 vs Pentax ist DS2

In this write-up, we will be reviewing the Panasonic GH1 and Pentax ist DS2, one being a Advanced Mirrorless and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There is a sizeable difference between the resolutions of the GH1 (12MP) and ist DS2 (6MP) and the GH1 (Four Thirds) and ist DS2 (APS-C) enjoy different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The GH1 was brought out 3 years later than the ist DS2 and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GH1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax ist DS2 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving through a thorough comparison, below is a brief summary of how the GH1 grades versus the ist DS2 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1 and Pentax ist DS2. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic GH1 Gallery and Pentax ist DS2 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry your camera often, you have to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic GH1 offers exterior dimensions of 124mm x 90mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 1.8") accompanied by a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) and the Pentax ist DS2 has sizing of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") having a weight of 605 grams (1.33 lbs).

Check the Panasonic GH1 and Pentax ist DS2 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have chosen at that time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the GH1 versus the ist DS2.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the GH1 and ist DS2 is 81 and 68 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to picture the difference between sensor sizing simply by reviewing a spec sheet. The photograph below may give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the GH1 and ist DS2.

Clearly, each of the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The GH1 because of its tinier sensor is going to make shooting bokeh trickier and the Panasonic GH1 will offer you extra detail having its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop pictures a little more aggressively. The fresher GH1 provides an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.