Panasonic GX7 vs Pentax K-01: A Hands-On Advanced Mirrorless Showdown

In the ever-evolving mirrorless camera market, two quirky yet capable models from the early 2010s still hold curiosity for photography enthusiasts. The Panasonic Lumix GX7 and the Pentax K-01 both arrive from reputable brands with distinct design philosophies, sensor formats, and user experiences. As someone who’s personally tested hundreds of cameras across genres, I’ve spent considerable time with these two – putting their specs, handling, and image quality under real-world conditions. This article is my practical, no-nonsense head-to-head comparison, geared to help you decide if either fits your needs and budget.

Let’s dive in with a thorough breakdown of what sets them apart and where each excels.

Getting Acquainted: Size, Design, and Handling Vibes

Both cameras break from the typical SLR mold in their own way - the Panasonic GX7 sports a rangefinder-style body, compact yet packed with pro-level features for its time. The Pentax K-01, on the other hand, flaunts an unconventional SLR-style mirrorless design, famously divisive for its angular, industrial look.

Physically, the GX7 feels lighter and smaller, weighing just 402g with dimensions of 123 x 71 x 55 mm, versus the K-01’s chunkier 561g and 122 x 79 x 58 mm footprint. After lugging around the K-01 for a day shooting street and travel snaps, I noticed its heft was noticeable, and the lack of traditional SLR curves made it a bit awkward to hold long-term. The GX7, with its deeper grip and more refined control layout, fits comfortably into my hands with natural clubs for thumbs and fingers – important when you’re aiming for fast, intuitive operation.

The K-01’s design will appeal to those who want something different, even artsy. Panasonic’s styling, while classic, errs on the practical side, utilizing a tilting touchscreen and reasonably positioned dials for quick exposure shifts.

Top View Control Layout and User Interface

Shooting experience depends massively on how controls feel under fingers during fast-paced sessions. Panasonic’s decades of experience show here.

The GX7 offers dedicated dials for shutter speed and exposure compensation right on top – a boon for shooters who like to quickly tweak settings without menu dives. The exposure compensation dial also locks, which is a thoughtful detail.

Pentax K-01’s top view is bare by comparison: a mode dial, shutter button, and power switch dominate, but other frequently used controls are forced into menus or rear buttons. As someone who relies on sculptured tactile feedback, I found myself frustrated having to hunt for settings during candid shoots.

Panasonic also boasts a responsive touch-enabled LCD (more on that shortly), which adds another layer to how you interact with the camera.

Sensor Size and Image Quality Fundamentals

The guts matter most: an imaging sensor’s size and architecture directly influence sharpness, dynamic range, noise performance, and depth of field.

The Panasonic GX7 uses a Micro Four Thirds (MFT) 16-megapixel sensor, measuring 17.3 x 13 mm. It’s smaller than APS-C but benefits from Panasonic’s Venus Engine processing with excellent noise control up to ISO 3200 and beyond, plus in-body stabilization.

The Pentax K-01 packs a 16MP APS-C CMOS sensor sized at 23.7 x 15.7 mm - about 65% bigger sensor area (372.09mm² vs 224.9mm²). Larger sensors often deliver better dynamic range and cleaner high ISO, and the K-01 scores accordingly in DxO Mark benchmarks: its overall score is 79, notably higher than the GX7’s 70.

What does that mean for your images? The K-01 can better preserve highlight and shadow detail in landscapes and offers superior low-light performance, which benefits event shooters and astrophotographers alike. The GX7, meanwhile, provides stellar color depth and dynamic range improvements over previous MFT generations, due in part to its efficient noise reduction and sensor-based stabilization.

Both support RAW shooting, so post-processing latitude is strong, but the K-01’s sensor edges out on pure image quality.

Viewing and Focusing: EVF, LCD, and Autofocus

Eye-level composition and focusing are critical, especially for portraits, wildlife, and sports photography.

Viewfinders:

The Panasonic GX7 shines with a high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) boasting 2765k dots, 100% frame coverage, and a comfortable 0.7x magnification. This EVF is one of the crispest mid-range EVFs I’ve tested, delivering clear, lag-free previews even in bright sunlight.

The Pentax K-01 sadly lacks a viewfinder altogether. That’s a big dealbreaker for anyone who prefers eye-level shooting or works outdoors in bright conditions. You’re relegated to composing via the rear LCD, which is fixed and somewhat dimmer.

LCD Screen:

Panasonic’s 3-inch tilting touchscreen has 1040k dots, is bright and responsive, allowing you to tap to focus and navigate menus swiftly. I found it especially useful for macro work and awkward angles.

The K-01 features a fixed 3-inch TFT LCD at 921k dots, no touch support. It’s fine for playback and general use but feels dated compared to rivals.

Autofocus Systems:

Here, each diverges significantly.

• Panasonic GX7: Contrast-detection AF only, with 23 focus points and face-detection that works well for portraits. It supports continuous AF and tracking, but speed is middling by modern standards. Eye AF is not available.

• Pentax K-01: Also uses contrast-detection AF, but with an impressive 81 focus points, though no continuous tracking. Face detection is present but without eye detection or animal detection.

In practice, the GX7’s AF felt slightly smoother and more reliable in live view, thanks to advanced Venus Engine algorithms. The K-01’s AF can hunt in low light or fast action.

Burst Shooting and Shutter: Sports and Wildlife Considerations

If you’re chasing wildlife or sports, frame rates and shutter responsiveness can make or break shots.

Continuous shooting rates:

• GX7: 5 FPS
• K-01: 6 FPS

Both offer respectable burst modes. However, the GX7’s shutter speeds cap at 1/8000s mechanical and 1/16000s electronic silent shutter, giving it an edge for shooting wide apertures in bright daylight without ND filters.

The K-01 maxes out at 1/4000s mechanical shutter, no electronic shutter option available, limiting flexibility.

I found the GX7’s shutter release feels crisp and quiet, while the K-01’s shutter is louder and clunkier, less suited for stealthy shooting like street or wildlife.

Lens Ecosystem: What Glass Can You Use?

Lens availability and selection are often the dealbreaker when picking a system.

• Panasonic GX7 uses the Micro Four Thirds mount, with over 107 native lenses at the time, offering options from ultra-wide to super-telephoto primes and zooms. The MFT system is mature, with lenses from Panasonic, Olympus, third-party brands like Sigma and Tamron, plus affordable and pro-grade offerings. Adapters exist for legacy lenses too.

• Pentax K-01 employs the Pentax KAF2 mount, which is the classic Pentax DSLR mount. That’s a huge selection of 151 lenses available, including many legacy and affordable primes, Pentax weather-sealed zooms, and specialty glass. While bulky, the K-01’s mount supports amazing legacy lenses, an advantage for collectors and creative shooters.

If versatility and lens choices matter most, the APS-C Pentax system offers quantity and quality, but the diminutive MFT glass on the GX7 emphasizes portability.

Build Quality, Weather Sealing, and Durability

Neither camera offers comprehensive environmental sealing, so caution is advised in harsh conditions.

• Panasonic GX7 is solid, built with a magnesium alloy top plate and excellent fit and finish for an advanced mirrorless camera of its generation. Lightweight but sturdy.

• Pentax K-01’s machined aluminum body is stiff and heavy, giving reassuring durability, but the unusual design sacrifices ergonomics.

Neither is freezeproof, waterproof, or dustproof, so serious landscape or wildlife shooters in tough conditions should consider weather-sealed alternatives.

Battery Life and Storage

Battery endurance is a common pain point with mirrorless models.

The Pentax K-01 wins hands down here with Sony’s D-LI90 battery delivering about 540 shots per charge, far surpassing the GX7’s rated 350 shots with its proprietary lithium-ion pack.

Both cameras use a single SD card slot supporting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, standard fare.

For extended use like travel or event shooting, the K-01’s better battery life is a practical advantage.

Connectivity and Extras: Sharing and Video Modes

Connectivity sets the GX7 apart somewhat:

• Built-in Wi-Fi with NFC pairing lets you quickly transfer images to smartphones or control the camera remotely via an app. Very helpful for social shooters or quick sharing.

• The K-01 lacks wireless connectivity entirely - a downside in today’s hyper-connected world.

On video:

• Panasonic GX7 shoots Full HD 1080p at 60p/50p/30p in MPEG-4 or AVCHD formats. It also offers slow-motion capabilities in 720p and a decent level of manual video control.

• Pentax K-01 also supports Full HD 1080p at 30/25/24 fps with MPEG-4 and H.264 codecs but capped at 30p max.

Neither supports 4K or advanced video tools common in modern models, but the GX7’s smoother frame rate options make it better for casual video creators.

Neither camera has a headphone jack, limiting audio monitoring, though K-01 has a microphone input, a curious split.

Real-World Performance in Popular Photography Disciplines

Let’s break down how each camera holds up across common photo genres.

Portrait Photography

The GX7’s Micro Four Thirds sensor means a crop factor of 2.0x, so depth of field is deeper compared to APS-C. While MFT lenses offer sharpness, achieving creamy background blur (bokeh) requires fast primes.

Pentax’s larger APS-C sensor coupled with a rich legacy of fast lenses allows for shallower DOF, which many portrait shooters crave. However, the GX7’s superior face detection autofocus and EVF aid in focusing precision.

Verdict: Portrait purists may prefer the K-01’s sensor size and lens options, but the GX7 prices in better AF assistance and handling.

Landscape Photography

Dynamic range matters here, and Pentax edges out with higher DxO scores reflecting better shadow recuperation and highlight retention.

GX7’s sensor-based stabilization helps hand-held shooting, but the smaller sensor limits ultimate image resolution slightly.

Neither camera is weather sealed, so protect your gear accordingly.

Verdict: Pentax K-01’s resolution and DR outright trump Panasonic for landscapes, but GX7’s portability makes it more alluring for casual hikers.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

The GX7’s slower burst rate (5 FPS) and contrast-only AF system limit fast action capture, though its electronic shutter can freeze motion sharply in daylight.

The K-01’s marginally faster burst (6 FPS) is welcome but still basic for dedicated sports use.

In both cases, the lack of phase-detection AF or advanced tracking is a handicap versus modern cameras.

Verdict: Neither is tailored for demanding wildlife or sports professionals, but the GX7’s silent shutter helps in shy-animal scenarios.

Street Photography

For unobtrusive shooting, the GX7’s compact, quiet body with tilting touchscreen excels.

The K-01’s bulkier frame and louder shutter make it less discreet.

Verdict: GX7 wins here for stealth and handling ease.

Macro Photography

The GX7’s tilting LCD greatly aids composing close-up shots at odd angles.

Autofocus precision is decent but limited by contrast detection. The K-01’s fixed screen and more extensive lens lineup (including vintage macro lenses) might broaden options.

Verdict: Tie depending on lens - you get better handling with GX7 and potential lens versatility with K-01.

Night and Astrophotography

Pentax’s larger sensor and cleaner high ISO translate to better starry night captures.

The GX7’s sensor stabilization helps handheld night shots but noise rises sooner.

Verdict: Pentax K-01 edges prior thanks to sensor size and dynamic range.

Video and Travel Use

Panasonic GX7 is superior for video, with smoother fps options, wifi connectivity, and touchscreen ease.

Its smaller size and weight also make it a better travel companion.

Pentax K-01’s strengths lie mostly in stills, with limited video specs.

Verdict: Panasonic for travel vloggers and casual movies; Pentax for pure photography focus.

Professional Use

Neither camera is built for heavy-duty pro workflows. The GX7’s excellent EVF and touchscreen, coupled with MFT lenses, offer decent versatility.

The K-01’s larger sensor and wide lens lineup suit pros on a budget but may frustrate with AF quirks and interface limitations.

Image Gallery: Sample Photos from Both Cameras

To put pixels to words, here are typical JPEG samples captured under the same daylight conditions.

You’ll notice the K-01 has a slightly richer tonal gradation and dynamic range, while the GX7 produces punchy colors and contrast that pop straight out of camera.

Final Numbers: Performance Ratings Overview

A summary of key shooting stats weighted for different use cases.

The K-01 scores higher overall thanks to sensor size and resolution, but the GX7 performs better ergonomically and in video.

Specialty Scores: How Each Camera Performs in Specific Photography Genres

• Portrait: K-01 leads
• Landscape: K-01 definitive
• Sports: GX7 slightly better handling but both limited
• Street: GX7 clear win
• Video: GX7 ahead
• Macro: Evenly matched
• Night/Astro: K-01 superior
• Travel: GX7 better portability and battery
• Professional workflow: K-01 more image quality grunt, GX7 user-friendly

Pros and Cons Recap

Feature	Panasonic GX7	Pentax K-01
Sensor	MFT 16MP, stabilized, lower noise at moderate ISO	APS-C 16MP, better dynamic range, higher ISO capability
Body/Ergonomics	Compact, light, fantastic EVF, tilting touchscreen	Bulkier, unique design (love or hate), no EVF
Autofocus	23-point contrast-detection, face detection, live view AF	81 focus points, no continuous tracking
Burst Shooting	5 FPS, 1/8000s shutter plus silent mode	6 FPS, slower shutter, no silent shutter
Lens Ecosystem	Mature MFT mount, good native & adapted lenses	Vast Pentax K-mount lens library, including vintage
Video	Full HD up to 60p, WiFi connectivity	Full HD max 30p, no wireless
Battery Life	~350 shots per charge	~540 shots per charge
Connectivity	WiFi with NFC, HDMI, USB 2.0	HDMI, USB 2.0, no WiFi
Build	Weather sealing: no, magnesium alloy top	No weather sealing, sturdy aluminum body
Price (at launch)	$1000	$900

Who Should Buy Which?

Go for the Panasonic GX7 if you:

• Value compactness and a powerful, bright EVF for eye-level shooting.
• Want a responsive touchscreen and superior video capabilities.
• Are a street, travel, or casual wildlife shooter who prefers ergonomics and wireless sharing.
• Prefer a solid lens ecosystem with balance between portability and quality.
• Need a silent shutter for discreet shooting.

Pick the Pentax K-01 if you:

• Want the advantage of a larger APS-C sensor delivering higher resolution and better dynamic range.
• Are into landscapes, studio portraits, or astrophotography and need cleaner high ISO imaging.
• Have or want to explore the extensive Pentax K-mount lens world, including vintage primes.
• Can tolerate the unusual ergonomics and lack of EVF.
• Prioritize longer battery life for extended outdoor shoots.

Wrapping Up: The Balanced Verdict

While both the Panasonic GX7 and Pentax K-01 are now “legacy” cameras, they offer distinct experiences that appeal to different niches and needs.

The GX7 impresses with usability, compactness, and smart features ahead of its time, especially for enthusiast street shooters and casual filmmakers. It’s a well-rounded package blending solid imaging with pleasing ergonomics.

The K-01 rewards those craving image quality and lens variety, though at the cost of bulk and clunky controls. If raw sensor performance and creative glass are priorities, it remains compelling.

Personally, I gravitate toward the GX7 for versatility and ease of use in daily shooting and travel setups, while the K-01 intrigues me for deliberate, artistic shoots where image quality is king.

If you want a modern camera, neither is optimal today - but as affordable used options, they each deliver strong points worth considering for enthusiasts on a budget or collectors fascinated by recent mirrorless history.

Happy shooting, and may your next camera be a joyful extension of your vision!

Feel free to ask questions or share your experiences with these cameras in the comments below.