Panasonic GH3 vs Pentax K-5 II

Here is a extensive analysis of the Panasonic GH3 and Pentax K-5 II, one being a Advanced Mirrorless and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the GH3 (16MP) and the K-5 II (16MP) is pretty similar but the GH3 (Four Thirds) and K-5 II (APS-C) use different sensor sizes.

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The GH3 was announced 8 months prior to the K-5 II so they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GH3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K-5 II being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before going in to a full comparison, below is a simple summary of how the GH3 grades vs the K-5 II for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3 and Pentax K-5 II. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic GH3 Gallery and Pentax K-5 II Gallery.

When you are going to carry your camera regularly, you will have to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic GH3 enjoys outside dimensions of 133mm x 93mm x 82mm (5.2" x 3.7" x 3.2") along with a weight of 550 grams (1.21 lbs) while the Pentax K-5 II has sizing of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") and a weight of 760 grams (1.68 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic GH3 and Pentax K-5 II in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are utilising at the time. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the GH3 compared to the K-5 II.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the GH3 and K-5 II is 66 and 60 respectively.

In many cases, it's tough to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing purely by reviewing specs. The visual below should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the GH3 and K-5 II.

All in all, each of the cameras offer the same exact MP albeit different sensor sizing. The GH3 contains the tinier sensor which should make getting shallow DOF more challenging. The older GH3 is going to be behind in sensor tech.