Panasonic SZ8 vs Pentax K-5 II

Its time to look a bit more in depth at the Panasonic SZ8 and Pentax K-5 II, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the SZ8 (16MP) and the K-5 II (16MP) is relatively comparable but the SZ8 (1/2.3") and K-5 II (APS-C) offer totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The SZ8 was brought out 8 months later than the K-5 II and they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic SZ8 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-5 II being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go right into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple summation of how the SZ8 scores vs the K-5 II in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 and Pentax K-5 II. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic SZ8 Gallery and Pentax K-5 II Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera often, you are going to need to factor its weight and proportions. The Panasonic SZ8 features outside measurements of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-5 II has measurements of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") along with a weight of 760 grams (1.68 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic SZ8 and Pentax K-5 II in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you select during that time. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the SZ8 vs the K-5 II.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ8 and K-5 II is 94 and 60 respectively.

Often, it can be difficult to see the gap in sensor sizing only by going through specs. The visual here should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ8 and K-5 II.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras feature the identical MP albeit not the same sensor sizing. The SZ8 comes with the smaller sensor which will make achieving bokeh tougher. The more modern SZ8 will have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.