Panasonic GX850 vs Pentax VS20

Here, we will be reviewing the Panasonic GX850 vs Pentax VS20, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the GX850 (16MP) and the VS20 (16MP) is pretty well matched but the GX850 (Four Thirds) and VS20 (1/2.3") boast different sensor sizes.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The GX850 was unveiled 5 years after the VS20 which is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic GX850 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax VS20 being a Compact camera.

Before diving into a in-depth comparison, here is a simple summation of how the GX850 grades vs the VS20 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX850 and Pentax Optio VS20. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic GX850 Gallery and Pentax VS20 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry around your camera often, you'll have to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic GX850 offers external measurements of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) whilst the Pentax VS20 has proportions of 111mm x 61mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic GX850 vs Pentax VS20 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose during that time. The following is a front view over all size comparison of the GX850 compared to the VS20.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the GX850 and VS20 is 90 and 90 respectively.

In many cases, its tough to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes merely by reading through a spec sheet. The image below will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the GX850 and VS20.

As you can see, each of the cameras feature the identical MP albeit different sensor sizes. The GX850 offers the bigger sensor which is going to make achieving shallow DOF easier. The more modern GX850 should have a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.