Panasonic GH4 vs Pentax 645D

Let's examine more in depth at the Panasonic GH4 and Pentax 645D, one is a Pro Mirrorless and the other is a Pro DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There is a big difference among the sensor resolutions of the GH4 (16MP) and 645D (40MP) and the GH4 (Four Thirds) and 645D (Medium format) feature totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The GH4 was released 3 years after the 645D which is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GH4 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax 645D being a Large SLR camera.

Before we go in to a thorough comparison, below is a quick summary of how the GH4 grades against the 645D in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 and Pentax 645D. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic GH4 Gallery and Pentax 645D Gallery.

If you're intending to carry around your camera frequently, you will have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GH4 comes with physical measurements of 133mm x 93mm x 84mm (5.2" x 3.7" x 3.3") accompanied by a weight of 560 grams (1.23 lbs) and the Pentax 645D has dimensions of 156mm x 117mm x 119mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.7") and a weight of 1480 grams (3.26 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic GH4 and Pentax 645D in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are working with at the time. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the GH4 and the 645D.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the GH4 and 645D is 66 and 50 respectively.

Often, it's hard to see the contrast in sensor sizes simply by checking out a spec sheet. The pic here might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the GH4 and 645D.

As you can see, the 2 cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The GH4 due to its smaller sensor will make getting shallow DOF more challenging and the Pentax 645D will produce extra detail as a result of its extra 24MP. Greater resolution will enable you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The more modern GH4 will have a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.