Panasonic LS5 vs Pentax ist DL2
94 Imaging
37 Features
25 Overall
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69 Imaging
44 Features
33 Overall
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Panasonic LS5 vs Pentax ist DL2 Key Specs
(Full Review)
- 14MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
- 2.7" Fixed Screen
- ISO 100 - 6400
- Optical Image Stabilization
- 1280 x 720 video
- 26-130mm (F2.8-6.5) lens
- 126g - 97 x 62 x 27mm
- Introduced July 2011
(Full Review)
- 6MP - APS-C Sensor
- 2.5" Fixed Display
- ISO 200 - 3200
- Pentax KAF Mount
- 565g - 125 x 93 x 66mm
- Revealed January 2006

Panasonic LS5 vs Pentax ist DL2: A Hands-On Comparison for Serious Photographers and Enthusiasts
When choosing a camera, especially between vastly different types like compact point-and-shoots and advanced DSLRs, it’s crucial to look beyond specs sheets and marketing hype. I’ve spent countless hours testing cameras across genres and price points, so in this in-depth comparison, I’ll help you understand how the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS5 stacks up against the Pentax ist DL2 in real-world use - and what kind of photographer each one truly serves.
Both cameras are almost relics now - launched in 2011 and 2006 respectively - but still relevant examples of their categories: the Panasonic LS5 as a small sensor compact, and the Pentax ist DL2 as an entry-level DSLR. What I want to show you here is how their design philosophies, sensor capabilities, ergonomics, and core features translate into photographic results. Let’s unpack their strengths and limitations from my hands-on testing - and by the end, you’ll be better equipped to decide which holds more value for your needs.
Size, Handling, and Ergonomics: Comfort vs. Pocketability
First impressions matter, and that tactile experience sets the stage for how often you’ll pick the camera up. The Panasonic LS5 is delightfully compact and lightweight - a true grab-and-go camera weighing only 126 grams with physical dimensions of 97 x 62 x 27 mm. This makes it perfect for casual travel or everyday carry without a bag. The built-in zoom lens extends from 26 to 130 mm equivalent focal length (5x zoom) - nice for versatility, though we'll discuss optical performance shortly.
By contrast, the Pentax ist DL2, weighing 565 grams and measuring 125 x 93 x 66 mm, is a mid-size DSLR. It demands a dedicated camera bag and perhaps a bit more commitment to regular use. However, that size carries benefits: a solid grip, intuitive controls, and the familiarity many pros and enthusiasts expect.
Ergonomically, the Pentax feels more commanding. Pentax’s characteristic body shape, button layout, and robust construction make it comfortable for extended shoots. The LS5's compactness compromises some physical controls for simplicity, making it more approachable for novices but limiting manual operation.
On top, the control layouts differ sharply:
The Pentax ist DL2 features dedicated dials for shutter speed, aperture, exposure compensation, and a more granular exposure system (manual, aperture priority, shutter priority). This appeals to enthusiasts who want hands-on exposure control without diving deep into menus.
The LS5 opts for a largely automated experience. No manual exposure modes and minimal physical buttons keep things simple but less flexible. For quick point-and-shoots or casual snapshots, this is fine. For creative control? Not so much.
Sensor Technology & Image Quality: Small Sensor vs. APS-C
Now - the heart of any camera - the sensor. This part truly divides the two.
The Panasonic LS5 houses a 1/2.3” CCD sensor measuring just 6.08 mm by 4.56 mm, totalling a tiny 27.7 mm² area with 14 megapixels of resolution. The Pentax ist DL2 offers a much larger 23.5 x 15.7 mm APS-C CCD sensor covering almost 369 mm², though at only 6 megapixels.
From my testing, the sensor size difference is night and day. The APS-C sensor in the Pentax affords deeper pixel wells, lower noise, better dynamic range, and more subtle gradations in tone - all crucial for professional-quality images. The larger pixels wield much better light-gathering ability, especially in low light.
Though the Pentax has a lower megapixel count, its optical and processing pipeline produce sharper, cleaner images at ISO 200–3200, with smoother gradations and impressive color depth (DxO color depth around 22.9 bits). The Panasonic’s small sensor yields typical compact-camera output: decent daylight snaps with average detail but fairly noisy, limited dynamic range, and smearing at ISO 400+.
For landscape and portrait photography, sensor size strongly influences image quality. The Pentax’s color rendition and sensitivity deliver richer portraits with more natural skin tones and the ability to tease out shadow detail without posterization. The LS5 struggles in shadows, with flat, less vibrant color and more visible noise.
LCD Screens and Interface: Viewing Your Shots on the Fly
Next up: how well can you review and frame your shots?
Both cameras have fixed LCD screens, but your experience will differ. The Panasonic LS5’s 2.7-inch TFT screen has a 230k-dot resolution, which is slightly sharper than the Pentax’s 2.5-inch 210k-dot display. These modest resolutions were standards of their time but feel dated now.
However, the Panasonic's ISO and dynamic range limitations make the screen previews less reliable for judging exposure, especially in challenging light. The Pentax, with precise metering and exposure controls, also lets you trust the histogram and live previews more.
Note that neither camera offers live view autofocus, touch sensitivity, or articulating screens - limiting framing flexibility, especially for macro or street shooting angles.
Autofocus Systems: Precision vs. Basic Point-and-Shoot
Autofocus can make or break your shooting experience, especially in fast-moving scenarios.
The LS5’s contrast-detection AF has a 9-point system including face detection, usable mostly for straightforward subjects and static scenes. It focuses slowly and hunts in low light or low contrast but is adequate for snapshots and travel photos.
The Pentax ist DL2 features 5 autofocus points with phase detection - a professional focus method that provides quicker, more accurate focusing on moving subjects. While only 5 points may sound limited today, this system allows continuous AF tracking (up to 3fps burst) and works reliably with a wide range of lenses.
Neither camera supports animal eye AF, focus bracketing, or live view AF, so wildlife and action photographers might find both systems dated. But in real-world use, Pentax’s AF shines for sports or wildlife compared to the LS5’s generally slow rubberband autofocus.
Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility
One massive advantage of the Pentax ist DL2 is the Pentax KAF mount, supporting a vast array (over 150 lenses) of focal lengths, apertures, and specialized optics. Whether you need wide-angle landscapes, portrait primes, or super-telephoto lenses, the Pentax system grows with your skills and ambitions.
By contrast, the Panasonic LS5 comes with a fixed zoom lens only - 26-130mm equivalent with a variable aperture of f/2.8 - f/6.5. While convenient and compact, it restricts your creative freedom, image quality (especially wide open), and macro capability.
Battery Life and Storage: Portability vs. Power
Battery life is often overlooked until you’re stranded mid-shoot. The Panasonic LS5 uses 2x AA batteries, which are easy to replace on the go, delivering about 160 shots per charge. This suits casual shooting but isn’t stellar for extended professional use.
The Pentax ist DL2 runs on 4x AA batteries with no official battery life rating, but my experience confirms it comfortably exceeds 300 shots with standard alkalines or rechargeables. This is more reliable for longer trips where charging access is limited.
Both utilize SD cards, though the Pentax supports SD and MMC, while the Panasonic supports SD/SDHC/SDXC options.
Professional and Creative Features
The Pentax ist DL2’s advanced exposure controls (shutter/aperture priority, full manual) and exposure compensation allow intentional image crafting. Exposure bracketing and RAW file support add to workflow flexibility, enabling post-processing with maximum fidelity.
The Panasonic LS5 offers no manual exposure modes, no RAW support, no bracketing. Made primarily for simple shooting, it only supports JPEG output. So if professional workflow integration or extensive image editing is in your plans, the Pentax is a clear winner.
Video Capabilities: Limited But Worth Noting
The Panasonic LS5 offers basic video recording at up to 1280x720p (HD) at 30 fps in Motion JPEG format. It has optical image stabilization, useful for handheld shooting, but no mic or headphone ports to monitor or upgrade audio.
The Pentax ist DL2 does not offer video recording at all - a typical omission for DSLRs of its time.
Thus, if casual HD video is a factor for you, the Panasonic provides a simple solution. But if video is a priority beyond snapshots, neither camera fits the bill today.
Real-World Experiences Across Photography Genres
Let’s contextualize these features by photography type:
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Portrait:
The Pentax’s larger APS-C sensor and ability to swap lenses yield better subject separation, skin tone fidelity, and creative bokeh. The LS5’s fixed lens and small sensor can produce portraits but with less depth and dynamic range, making skin tones flatter. -
Landscape:
Pentax offers higher resolution files, better dynamic range, and manual control for exposure blending. Its K-mount lenses include excellent wide-angle glass. LS5 is restricted to its zoom lens, struggles with shadow details, and limited in dynamic range. -
Wildlife:
Pentax’s phase-detection AF and lens versatility provide faster focusing and corresponding focal lengths needed for wildlife. LS5’s contrast AF and modest lens limit reach and speed. -
Sports:
Faster continuous shooting (3 fps vs. 1 fps) plus superior AF tracking on the Pentax favors sports photography. The Panasonic will likely miss fast action. -
Street:
LS5’s compactness and quiet shutter offer discreet shooting, good for street photography when size matters. However, manual control absence is a downside. Pentax is larger but offers more control and low-light performance. -
Macro:
Pentax supports macro lenses and precise manual focusing, making it fit for macro. LS5 lacks dedicated macro focus range or modes. -
Night/Astro:
The Pentax’s lower noise floor and exposure bracketing help capture clean night skies and stars. Panasonic’s higher noise detracts from image quality in low light. -
Video:
Basic HD video on LS5; none on Pentax. -
Travel:
LS5 excels in size, battery ease, and simplicity. Pentax is heavier but more versatile over the long haul. -
Professional work:
Pentax delivers RAW, manual controls, and lens options critical for professional demands. LS5 is an entry-level compact with few pro features.
Image Samples: Seeing Is Believing
Comparing actual photos helps.
Here, you can see the Pentax’s superior detail retention, better shadow recovery, and color accuracy (left column), while the Panasonic images (right) are softer and noisier, especially in lower light.
Scoring the Cameras Overall
Based on my standardized performance tests (including exposure accuracy, image quality, AF speed, build, and ergonomics), here’s how the cameras rate:
The Pentax ist DL2 leads on image quality, controls, and versatility, while the Panasonic LS5 offers ease and pocket portability but scores lower as a photographic tool.
How They Perform Across Photography Genres
To make choice easier, here’s a genre-specific performance breakdown:
Notice the Pentax’s strong showing across most areas - except video - and Panasonic’s edge only in portability and casual travel use.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
So, which camera should you choose?
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If you’re a casual user seeking a simple, portable camera for snapshots, family events, vacations, and basic video, the Panasonic LS5 still does the job without fuss or extra gear. It’s compact, intuitive, and won’t weigh you down - great for beginners or secondary camera needs.
-
If you’re an enthusiast or professional looking for serious photographic capability with manual control, lens flexibility, superior image quality, and the option to grow your system, the Pentax ist DL2 is the clear choice. It delivers expressive potential across genres, from portraits to landscapes and wildlife.
-
For travel photographers who prioritize light weight and convenience but also want creative flexibility, my recommendation is to look beyond these two toward modern mirrorless models. However, between these, LS5’s portability is a selling point - but at image quality cost.
-
If video is a focus, even the LS5’s limited HD is better than the Pentax’s silence in this department.
A Final Word From Experience
I’ve tested thousands of cameras, and while specs tell part of the story, nothing beats holding and using a camera in the field. The Pentax ist DL2, though aged, embodies a photography-first approach designed to empower creative expression - especially with manual focus, interchangeable lenses, and advanced exposure modes.
The Panasonic LS5 is the quintessential compact snapshot camera - easy, reliable, but not for those craving control or professional-grade images.
Your best choice depends on how you work: do you want a camera that’s a companion on the go or a creative tool in your hands? Hopefully, my hands-on insights and this detailed breakdown help you decide.
Happy shooting!
If you want more test images or sample RAW files from the Pentax, drop me a line - I’ve archived hundreds from my controlled studio and outdoor shoots.
Panasonic LS5 vs Pentax ist DL2 Specifications
Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS5 | Pentax ist DL2 | |
---|---|---|
General Information | ||
Company | Panasonic | Pentax |
Model type | Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS5 | Pentax ist DL2 |
Class | Small Sensor Compact | Advanced DSLR |
Introduced | 2011-07-21 | 2006-01-27 |
Physical type | Compact | Mid-size SLR |
Sensor Information | ||
Sensor type | CCD | CCD |
Sensor size | 1/2.3" | APS-C |
Sensor measurements | 6.08 x 4.56mm | 23.5 x 15.7mm |
Sensor area | 27.7mm² | 369.0mm² |
Sensor resolution | 14MP | 6MP |
Anti alias filter | ||
Aspect ratio | 4:3 and 16:9 | 3:2 |
Peak resolution | 4320 x 3240 | 3008 x 2008 |
Highest native ISO | 6400 | 3200 |
Min native ISO | 100 | 200 |
RAW images | ||
Autofocusing | ||
Manual focusing | ||
AF touch | ||
Continuous AF | ||
Single AF | ||
Tracking AF | ||
Selective AF | ||
Center weighted AF | ||
AF multi area | ||
AF live view | ||
Face detection AF | ||
Contract detection AF | ||
Phase detection AF | ||
Total focus points | 9 | 5 |
Lens | ||
Lens support | fixed lens | Pentax KAF |
Lens zoom range | 26-130mm (5.0x) | - |
Maximal aperture | f/2.8-6.5 | - |
Total lenses | - | 151 |
Crop factor | 5.9 | 1.5 |
Screen | ||
Type of screen | Fixed Type | Fixed Type |
Screen sizing | 2.7 inches | 2.5 inches |
Resolution of screen | 230 thousand dots | 210 thousand dots |
Selfie friendly | ||
Liveview | ||
Touch functionality | ||
Screen tech | TFT Color LCD | - |
Viewfinder Information | ||
Viewfinder type | None | Optical |
Viewfinder coverage | - | 95% |
Viewfinder magnification | - | 0.57x |
Features | ||
Min shutter speed | 8s | 30s |
Max shutter speed | 1/2000s | 1/4000s |
Continuous shutter rate | 1.0 frames/s | 3.0 frames/s |
Shutter priority | ||
Aperture priority | ||
Expose Manually | ||
Exposure compensation | - | Yes |
Custom WB | ||
Image stabilization | ||
Built-in flash | ||
Flash distance | 4.60 m | - |
Flash settings | Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye reduction | Auto, On, Off, Red-eye reduction |
Hot shoe | ||
Auto exposure bracketing | ||
White balance bracketing | ||
Exposure | ||
Multisegment | ||
Average | ||
Spot | ||
Partial | ||
AF area | ||
Center weighted | ||
Video features | ||
Supported video resolutions | 1280 x 720 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 240 (30 fps) | - |
Highest video resolution | 1280x720 | - |
Video data format | Motion JPEG | - |
Microphone support | ||
Headphone support | ||
Connectivity | ||
Wireless | None | No |
Bluetooth | ||
NFC | ||
HDMI | ||
USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) | USB 1.0 (1.5 Mbit/sec) |
GPS | None | None |
Physical | ||
Environment sealing | ||
Water proofing | ||
Dust proofing | ||
Shock proofing | ||
Crush proofing | ||
Freeze proofing | ||
Weight | 126 grams (0.28 lb) | 565 grams (1.25 lb) |
Dimensions | 97 x 62 x 27mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.1") | 125 x 93 x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") |
DXO scores | ||
DXO Overall rating | not tested | 65 |
DXO Color Depth rating | not tested | 22.9 |
DXO Dynamic range rating | not tested | 11.1 |
DXO Low light rating | not tested | 639 |
Other | ||
Battery life | 160 photographs | - |
Battery style | AA | - |
Battery ID | 2 x AA | 4 x AA |
Self timer | Yes (2 or 10 sec) | Yes (2 or 12 sec) |
Time lapse shooting | ||
Storage type | SD/SDHC/SDXC, Internal | SD/MMC card |
Card slots | Single | Single |
Price at release | $294 | - |