Panasonic GM1 vs Pentax K-5

Following is a detailed review of the Panasonic GM1 versus Pentax K-5, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Advanced DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the GM1 (16MP) and the K-5 (16MP) is fairly similar but the GM1 (Four Thirds) and K-5 (APS-C) feature different sensor dimensions.

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The GM1 was manufactured 3 years after the K-5 which is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K-5 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before going through a detailed comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the GM1 matches up vs the K-5 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1 and Pentax K-5. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic GM1 Gallery and Pentax K-5 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry around your camera often, you'll need to take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic GM1 has outside measurements of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-5 has specifications of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") along with a weight of 740 grams (1.63 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic GM1 versus Pentax K-5 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you select at that moment. Underneath is the front view dimensions comparison of the GM1 compared to the K-5.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the GM1 and K-5 is 93 and 60 respectively.

In many cases, it is very hard to picture the difference between sensor sizes purely by going over specs. The pic here might provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the GM1 and K-5.

All in all, both of these cameras offer the same exact resolution but different sensor sizes. The GM1 features the tinier sensor which will make achieving shallower DOF more difficult. The more modern GM1 provides an edge when it comes to sensor tech.