Panasonic GX85 vs Pentax VS20

Here is a extended review of the Panasonic GX85 and Pentax VS20, one being a Advanced Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the GX85 (16MP) and the VS20 (16MP) is relatively comparable but the GX85 (Four Thirds) and VS20 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor measurements.

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The GX85 was launched 4 years later than the VS20 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GX85 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax VS20 being a Compact camera.

Before delving through a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief overview of how the GX85 matches up vs the VS20 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 and Pentax Optio VS20. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic GX85 Gallery and Pentax VS20 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry your camera, you will have to factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic GX85 comes with external dimensions of 122mm x 71mm x 44mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 426 grams (0.94 lbs) and the Pentax VS20 has sizing of 111mm x 61mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 1.5") and a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic GX85 and Pentax VS20 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the GX85 compared to the VS20.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the GX85 and VS20 is 83 and 90 respectively.

Typically, it's tough to envision the difference in sensor sizing just by checking out a spec sheet. The photograph below will give you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the GX85 and VS20.

Clearly, each of these cameras enjoy the same exact megapixels albeit not the same sensor sizing. The GX85 provides the bigger sensor which should make getting shallow DOF easier. The more modern GX85 will have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.