Panasonic GH4 vs Pentax K-5 IIs

Below is a thorough analysis of the Panasonic GH4 and Pentax K-5 IIs, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the other is a Advanced DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the GH4 (16MP) and the K-5 IIs (16MP) is fairly close but the GH4 (Four Thirds) and K-5 IIs (APS-C) feature totally different sensor sizes.

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The GH4 was announced 9 months later than the K-5 IIs so they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GH4 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K-5 IIs being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving through a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick summation of how the GH4 grades vs the K-5 IIs in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 and Pentax K-5 IIs. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic GH4 Gallery and Pentax K-5 IIs Gallery.

For those who are aiming to lug around your camera often, you will have to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GH4 enjoys external 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 K-5 IIs has proportions of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") accompanied by a weight of 760 grams (1.68 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GH4 and Pentax K-5 IIs in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are employing at that time. Here is the front view measurements comparison of the GH4 versus the K-5 IIs.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the GH4 and K-5 IIs is 66 and 60 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to see the difference in sensor measurements just by researching specifications. The graphic underneath will help provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the GH4 and K-5 IIs.

To sum up, each of these cameras offer the same exact megapixels but not the same sensor measurements. The GH4 offers the smaller sensor which should make obtaining shallower DOF tougher. The newer GH4 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.