Panasonic GM1 vs Pentax K-500

Following is a extended review of the Panasonic GM1 vs Pentax K-500, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by companies Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the GM1 (16MP) and the K-500 (16MP) is very well matched but the GM1 (Four Thirds) and K-500 (APS-C) enjoy totally different sensor dimensions.

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The GM1 was manufactured at a similar time to the K-500 and they are of a similar generation. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K-500 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick view of how the GM1 scores against the K-500 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1 and Pentax K-500. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic GM1 Gallery and Pentax K-500 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry around your camera frequently, you need to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic GM1 provides exterior measurements of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") having a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs) and the Pentax K-500 has measurements of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") having a weight of 646 grams (1.42 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic GM1 vs Pentax K-500 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the GM1 compared to the K-500.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the GM1 and K-500 is 93 and 64 respectively.

In many cases, it is very hard to see the difference between sensor sizes only by checking technical specs. The pic underneath might offer you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the GM1 and K-500.

As you can tell, each of the cameras offer the same exact resolution but not the same sensor sizes. The GM1 provides the tinier sensor which will make obtaining shallow DOF trickier.