Panasonic GH4 vs Pentax RZ18

On this page, we will be contrasting the Panasonic GH4 versus Pentax RZ18, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the GH4 (16MP) and the RZ18 (16MP) is pretty close but the GH4 (Four Thirds) and RZ18 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor sizing.

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The GH4 was released 2 years later than the RZ18 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic GH4 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax RZ18 being a Compact camera.

Before delving into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise summary of how the GH4 grades against the RZ18 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 and Pentax Optio RZ18. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic GH4 Gallery and Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry your camera often, you'll have to factor its weight and volume. The Panasonic GH4 has external measurements of 133mm x 93mm x 84mm (5.2" x 3.7" x 3.3") along with a weight of 560 grams (1.23 lbs) while the Pentax RZ18 has sizing of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic GH4 versus Pentax RZ18 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are working with during that time. Underneath is a front view size comparison of the GH4 compared to the RZ18.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the GH4 and RZ18 is 66 and 92 respectively.

Usually, it is very tough to envision the difference in sensor sizing only by researching specs. The graphic below will give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the GH4 and RZ18.

As you can plainly see, both cameras have the same MP albeit not the same sensor sizing. The GH4 has the bigger sensor which will make obtaining shallow depth of field less difficult. The newer GH4 is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.