Panasonic GM5 vs Pentax K-S1

Here, we are analyzing the Panasonic GM5 vs Pentax K-S1, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the GM5 (16MP) and the K-S1 (20MP) is fairly comparable but the GM5 (Four Thirds) and K-S1 (APS-C) boast totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The GM5 was manufactured about the same time to the K-S1 so they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic GM5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K-S1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a short view of how the GM5 scores versus the K-S1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 and Pentax K-S1. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic GM5 Gallery and Pentax K-S1 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry around your camera regularly, you'll need to take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GM5 comes with outer dimensions of 99mm x 60mm x 36mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.4") with a weight of 211 grams (0.47 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-S1 has proportions of 121mm x 93mm x 70mm (4.8" x 3.7" x 2.8") and a weight of 558 grams (1.23 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic GM5 vs Pentax K-S1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are employing at that time. Following is a front view dimensions comparison of the GM5 against the K-S1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the GM5 and K-S1 is 91 and 69 respectively.

Quite often, its hard to see the difference in sensor sizes simply by going through specifications. The picture here will help give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the GM5 and K-S1.

To sum up, each of the cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The GM5 due to its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field more challenging and the Pentax K-S1 will produce greater detail due to its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop pics a good deal more aggressively.