Panasonic GM5 vs Pentax K-30

Here is a complete review of the Panasonic GM5 and Pentax K-30, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the GM5 (16MP) and the K-30 (16MP) is pretty well matched but the GM5 (Four Thirds) and K-30 (APS-C) enjoy different sensor sizing.

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The GM5 was revealed 23 months later than the K-30 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GM5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K-30 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before getting straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the GM5 scores vs the K-30 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 and Pentax K-30. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic GM5 Gallery and Pentax K-30 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic GM5 has got physical measurements of 99mm x 60mm x 36mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.4") along with a weight of 211 grams (0.47 lbs) while the Pentax K-30 has sizing of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") along with a weight of 650 grams (1.43 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic GM5 and Pentax K-30 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you use at the time. Here is the front view measurements comparison of the GM5 versus the K-30.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the GM5 and K-30 is 91 and 63 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is difficult to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing just by checking a spec sheet. The visual below should offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the GM5 and K-30.

As you can see, the two cameras enjoy the same exact MP albeit different sensor sizing. The GM5 uses the tinier sensor which is going to make obtaining bokeh harder. The more modern GM5 should have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.