Panasonic GH4 vs Pentax K-5: A Hands-On Comparison of Two Mid-2010s Workhorses

Choosing the right camera in a sea of options - especially within a similar vintage - can feel like a high-stakes game of "which gives the best bang for my buck?" Today, I’m diving deep into two respected cameras from the mid-2010s: the Panasonic Lumix GH4, a pro-oriented mirrorless with impressive video chops, and the legendary Pentax K-5, a rugged, advanced DSLR with solid imaging credentials.

Having logged countless hours behind both these cameras during their prime, I aim to cut through the specs sheet swimming pool and offer you practical insights drawn from real-world shooting experiences across genres and lighting conditions.

So whether you’re a hybrid shooter craving 4K video or a stills wiz seeking chunky DSLR reliability, let’s explore how these two stack up across performance, handling, and creative possibilities.

Holding Them in Your Hands: Size, Weight, and Ergonomics

First impressions matter, right? When you hold a camera, you need it to feel like an extension of yourself, not a foreign object that fights you every step.

The Panasonic GH4, with its SLR-style mirrorless body, comes in at a comfortable 133 x 93 x 84 mm and weighs about 560 grams. In contrast, the Pentax K-5 - a traditional mid-size DSLR - is a bit bulkier and heavier at 131 x 97 x 73 mm and tipping the scales around 740 grams.

The GH4’s smaller stature benefits from the compactness of mirrorless design, while still offering solid grip thanks to its moderately deep handhold. The K-5 exudes that characteristic DSLR heft - more battery inside, more rugged magnesium alloy body, and that satisfying weight some photographers prefer for stability.

The GH4’s fully articulated 3-inch OLED screen is a joy for composing at odd angles, while the fixed 3-inch TFT LCD on the K-5 restricts flexibility but shines in direct sunlight with decent brightness.

Moreover, GH4 features a touch-enabled screen, which speeds up setting adjustments and autofocus point selection - a feature the K-5 lacks, forcing more reliance on physical buttons. That said, Pentax’s button layout is thoughtfully designed with easy-to-reach dials and customizable keys, boasting a traditional DSLR control scheme that fans of optical viewfinders will appreciate.

In terms of weather sealing, both bodies offer environmental resistance - great news if shooting in less-than-ideal outdoor conditions.

If you favor portability and a modern interface, GH4’s ergonomics win. For palpable robustness and tactile DSLR familiarity, the Pentax K-5 impresses.

Design Under the Hood: Control Layout and User Interface

Examining the top panel and control scheme often reveals a camera’s design philosophy.

The GH4’s top view is neat, presenting a dedicated video record button within thumb’s reach and a logical cluster of dials for shutter speed, aperture, and ISO. The absence of a top screen is noticeable - probably sacrificed to keep the camera size down - but the main rear screen compensates well.

Pentax doubles down on the DSLR tradition with a top status LCD, allowing quick glance checks of settings without peeking through the viewfinder or toggling screens. This is particularly handy when shooting in colder conditions where touching the screen might be inconvenient.

While the K-5 doesn’t have a touchscreen, its buttons have a reassuring tactile click and can be intuitively reached without needing to avert your eye from the viewfinder - a valuable trait in fast-paced shooting.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Let’s peek inside the cameras and talk sensor size, resolution, and image fidelity - cornerstones for any photographer.

The K-5 sports an APS-C CMOS sensor measuring 23.7 x 15.7 mm, delivering a resolution of 16 megapixels and a crop factor of 1.5x. On paper, the larger sensor area (372.1 mm² compared to GH4’s 224.9 mm²) provides better light-gathering capability and potentially superior image quality - especially relevant for low-light performance and dynamic range.

The GH4, meanwhile, is built around a Four Thirds CMOS sensor sized 17.3 x 13 mm, also with 16 megapixels but smaller physical dimensions and a 2.0x crop factor. This implies that lenses will effectively have a doubled focal length, which can be a blessing for wildlife but more challenging for wide landscapes.

Regarding measured image quality from benchmarks such as DXOmark, the Pentax K-5 scores an overall 82, with superior dynamic range (14.1 EV) and better low-light sensitivity (ISO 1162). The GH4 scores 74, with a respectable dynamic range of 12.8 EV but comparatively higher noise at elevated ISOs.

In practical terms, this means the K-5 produces images with cleaner shadows and richer tonal gradation, particularly appreciated in portraits and landscapes with challenging light. The GH4, while slightly noisier at base ISO, shines in situations requiring fast readout speeds and video.

Eye on Autofocus: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Autofocus can make or break your shooting flow, particularly in genres like wildlife or sports.

The Pentax K-5 uses an 11-point phase-detection autofocus system, featuring 9 cross-type points, delivering reliable and rapid focus acquisition under daylight conditions. Its phase-detection AF lends itself to fast action tracking and low-light focusing down to EV -3.

The GH4 leans on contrast-detection autofocus with 49 selectable points - no phase detection here. While contrast AF typically lags in speed compared to phase detection, Panasonic’s advanced AF algorithms and touch AF help close the gap. It does support continuous AF and face detection, making it capable for video and stills alike.

In real-world shooting, I found the K-5’s phase-detection AF quicker to lock and more consistent for tracking moving subjects, especially in wildlife and sports. The GH4, however, impresses with its eye and face detection in live view and video modes but can feel slightly hesitant for fast burst shooting.

Burst Shooting and Continuous Performance

For those who chase fleeting moments - athletes, wildlife, event photographers - the burst rate and buffer define whether you nail the shot or miss it.

The GH4 can shoot up to 12 frames per second (fps) - blazing fast for its era and sensor class. This helps capture rapid action or create 4K photo frames from videos. However, note that this speed occurs with locked focus and limited buffer depth.

Pentax K-5’s burst rate peaks at 7 fps, respectable but not class-leading by modern standards. The buffer can sustain full speed for longer bursts, useful for action sequences.

If speed thrills you (and I do love chasing heartbreak moments), GH4 wins hands down, especially when combined with its excellent video frame grab options.

Exploring Video Capabilities: The GH4’s Domain

While both offer video recording, they serve very different filmmakers.

The GH4 was a landmark in hybrid camera design, pioneering 4K video recording at 30fps and 24fps in a compact mirrorless body - supporting advanced codecs like MPEG-4 and AVCHD. It incorporates headphone and microphone ports, and in-body tools for time-lapse, focus peaking, and zebras for exposure checking.

The K-5 records 1080p Full HD video up to 25fps in Motion JPEG codec, limiting file compression efficiency and editing flexibility. Audio recording is available (with external mic input), but no headphone jack for monitoring.

For serious video shooters or hybrid creators wanting 4K at an affordable price point, the GH4 remains a compelling choice, even years after release. Pentax, meanwhile, focuses on stills-first with basic video capabilities suited for casual shooters.

Portraits, Landscapes, and Beyond: Genre-Specific Performance

Photography is diverse - let’s review these cameras against various styles.

Portrait Photography

Skin tone rendering and bokeh characteristics matter a lot here.

Both cameras produce beautiful RAW files, but the larger sensor in K-5 delivers shallower depth of field for exquisite subject isolation. The GH4’s smaller sensor means you need wider apertures or longer focal lengths to achieve equivalent background blur.

Eye detection autofocus on the GH4 helps snap tack-sharp portraits with ease, although Pentax’s reliable phase AF isn’t far behind when paired with quality lenses. Pentax’s dynamic range advantage lets photographers pull highlight and shadow detail better in mixed lighting.

Landscape Photography

Landscape shooters crave dynamic range and resolution.

Despite equal megapixel counts, the APS-C sensor’s larger size grants the K-5 an edge in image quality and color depth for expansive vistas. Environmental sealing on both bodies supports shooting in inclement weather, but the Pentax’s sturdier build slightly wins for peace of mind on rugged trips.

The GH4’s fully articulating screen is handy for composition from unique angles - plus, its 4:3 aspect ratio sensor produces taller images, which some photographers prefer for framing.

Wildlife Photography

Thanks to the GH4’s 2x crop factor (or 2.1x effective), telephoto lenses translate to extra reach - gold for birders and wildlife hunters. Coupled with its 12fps burst, it’s a formidable wildlife tool, provided lighting is sufficient.

The K-5 offers superior autofocus speed and tracking accuracy with phase detection, essential for unpredictable animal movements. Plus, its larger sensor is better in low light, helping catch dim forest or dawn shots.

Sports Photography

Fast AF, burst rate, and low light performance drive sports success.

The GH4’s quick 12fps is attractive for fast sequences, but autofocus speed and tracking can trail the DSLR’s specialized AF modules. The K-5’s phase-detection AF paired with 7fps shooting offers more reliable subject confirmation under challenging tracking scenarios.

Still, GH4’s video capabilities provide creative slow-motion options unachievable on the K-5.

Street Photography

Discretion and portability carry weight here.

GH4’s smaller size and silent shutter mode make it a stealthier companion on busy streets. The articulating touchscreen also allows creative compositions from low or high vantage points without drawing attention.

The K-5’s louder shutter and larger body can be more conspicuous, though some prefer its robust feel and optical viewfinder framing.

Macro Photography

Precision focusing and stabilization count.

The GH4 lacks in-body stabilization but pairs well with stabilized lenses or external rigs. Contrast-detect AF with focus peaking helps nail manual focus shots accurately.

Pentax boasts sensor-based image stabilization (IBIS), expedient for handheld macro work. Its accurate phase AF can also assist in locating critical focus in macro scenes.

Night and Astro Photography

ISO performance and long exposure capabilities are key.

The K-5’s higher ISO native limit and better low-light noise control benefit night landscapes and astro work. Its mechanical shutter supports bulb exposures longer than the GH4’s minimized max shutter speed of 1/8000s.

Travel Photography

Here, versatility and battery life shine.

The GH4’s 560g weight and compact mirrorless body suit travel, enabling 4K video and stills in a lightweight package. Battery life is moderate (~500 shots), reasonable for mirrorless but requiring spares on longer journeys.

Pentax’s hefty 980-shot battery life is a boon for extended trips and no-nonsense keeping the camera running without recharging. The DSLR body is larger but proven rugged.

Handling Raw Processing and Workflow Integration

Both cameras offer RAW capture and solid color profiles, but the K-5’s files generally exhibit more latitude in post-processing.

Panasonic GH4's 4K photo mode lets you extract high-res stills from video, a creative workflow not offered on the K-5.

In terms of ecosystem, GH4 uses the Micro Four Thirds mount with ~107 lenses, offering an enormous range from budget primes to fast telephotos. Pentax KAF2 mount boasts ~151 lenses - including many legacy options - giving a classic lineup with excellent build quality.

Connectivity and Storage

The GH4 sports built-in Wi-Fi (a big plus for remote control and quick image transfers), plus HDMI, microphone and headphone jacks, and USB 2.0. The Pentax K-5, an older design, lacks wireless connectivity but offers standard HDMI and mic inputs, with optional GPS attachment.

Both use a single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot. Considering buffer and performance, investing in a speedy SD card is prudent.

Battery Life and Endurance

Battery life often defines long shooting days.

Pentax K-5 excels with approximately 980 shots per charge, appealing to outdoor or event photographers with limited charging options.

GH4 offers around 500 shots, respectable for mirrorless but necessitating extra batteries for intensive shooting days.

Price Considerations and Market Position

At launch, the GH4 commanded around $1500 body-only, reflecting its hybrid photographic and videographic ambitions.

The K-5 was more affordable around $800, targeted at enthusiasts wanting a durable DSLR at a reasonable price.

In the current used market, both offer solid value but serve different needs.

Putting It All Together: Performance Ratings and Genre Scores

Looking at performance summaries:

And breaking down by genre:

You can see that the K-5 edges ahead in still image quality, low light, and dynamic range, while GH4 shines in speed, video, and portability.

Shooting Gallery: Sample Images from Both Cameras

To better visualize differences, here are comparable samples showcasing skin tones, landscapes, and action shots.

Panasonic GH4 front Panasonic GH4 screen back Pentax K 5 front Pentax K 5 screen back

Notice the K-5’s cleaner shadows and richer colors versus the GH4’s punchy output and video frame grabs.

Verdict: Who Should Pick Which?

Choose Panasonic GH4 if you:

• Are a hybrid shooter prioritizing video, especially 4K.
• Want a lightweight, articulating touchscreen camera for travel and street photography.
• Chase fast burst modes for wildlife or sports.
• Prefer modern connectivity with wireless control.
• Enjoy extracting photos from video sequences.

Choose Pentax K-5 if you:

• Seek stellar still image quality with great dynamic range and low noise.
• Want a solid, weather-sealed DSLR with excellent battery life.
• Value the feel and precision of an optical viewfinder.
• Engage mostly in traditional photography genres like landscapes, portraits, and outdoor shooting.
• Have or want access to a wide selection of compatible DSLR lenses.

Final Thoughts: Experienced Perspectives Across a Decade

Both cameras hold up impressively in their niches after years in the game. The GH4 disrupted hybrid shooting with its 4K capabilities and agile mirrorless build, while the K-5 remains a DSLR benchmark for image quality and ruggedness.

As someone who's balanced pros and cons shooting portraits in the studio and chasing storms in the wild, I appreciate how each system invites a different style and mindset. The GH4 demands embracing digital workflows and video, rewarding experimentation. The K-5 nudges you toward tried and true DSLR discipline, rewarding patience and craftsmanship.

Whichever you pick, these cameras remind us that great photographs come not just from specs, but from the fingers pulling the shutter and the eyes framing the world.

Happy shooting!

If you enjoyed this thorough comparison and want deeper dives on similar cameras, feel free to ask - after all, I have thousands of frames behind my name and plenty more pixels to burn.