Panasonic SZ5 vs Pentax K-5 II

Its time to take a closer look at the Panasonic SZ5 versus Pentax K-5 II, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by companies Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the SZ5 (14MP) and the K-5 II (16MP) is relatively close but the SZ5 (1/2.3") and K-5 II (APS-C) come with totally different sensor sizing.

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The SZ5 was announced 10 months prior to the K-5 II and they are both of a similar age. Both cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic SZ5 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-5 II being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go through a in depth comparison, below is a concise view of how the SZ5 scores against the K-5 II in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5 & Pentax K-5 II. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic SZ5 Gallery & Pentax K-5 II Gallery.

In case you're going to carry your camera frequently, you will need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic SZ5 enjoys external measurements of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs) while the Pentax K-5 II has proportions of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") along with a weight of 760 grams (1.68 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic SZ5 versus Pentax K-5 II in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have chosen during that time. Below is the front view scale comparison of the SZ5 against the K-5 II.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ5 and K-5 II is 95 and 60 respectively.

Generally, it's tough to visualise the gap in sensor sizing only by viewing a spec sheet. The photograph here should provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ5 and K-5 II.

Clearly, the 2 cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The SZ5 with its smaller sensor will make shooting bokeh harder and the Pentax K-5 II will render extra detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots much more aggressively. The older SZ5 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.