Panasonic GX85 vs Pentax RZ18

Following is a in depth overview of the Panasonic GX85 vs Pentax RZ18, former is a Advanced Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the GX85 (16MP) and the RZ18 (16MP) is very comparable but the GX85 (Four Thirds) and RZ18 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The GX85 was unveiled 4 years after the RZ18 which is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic GX85 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax RZ18 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight to a thorough comparison, here is a short introduction of how the GX85 matches up vs the RZ18 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 & Pentax Optio RZ18. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic GX85 Gallery & Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry around your camera frequently, you'll have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GX85 has exterior measurements of 122mm x 71mm x 44mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.7") and a weight of 426 grams (0.94 lbs) and the Pentax RZ18 has dimensions of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic GX85 vs Pentax RZ18 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have attached at that moment. Underneath is a front view over all size comparison of the GX85 versus the RZ18.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the GX85 and RZ18 is 83 and 92 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's hard to see the gap in sensor sizes just by going through a spec sheet. The picture here may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the GX85 and RZ18.

As you can see, both cameras have the same resolution but not the same sensor sizes. The GX85 has got the larger sensor which should make achieving shallower DOF easier. The younger GX85 will have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.