Panasonic SZ8 vs Pentax K-5 IIs

Here is a detailed overview of the Panasonic SZ8 and Pentax K-5 IIs, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the SZ8 (16MP) and the K-5 IIs (16MP) is relatively well matched but the SZ8 (1/2.3") and K-5 IIs (APS-C) feature different sensor size.

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The SZ8 was unveiled 8 months later than the K-5 IIs and they are both of a similar age. The two cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic SZ8 being a Compact camera and the Pentax K-5 IIs being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before getting through a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief summation of how the SZ8 grades vs the K-5 IIs in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 & Pentax K-5 IIs. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic SZ8 Gallery & Pentax K-5 IIs Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera, you need to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic SZ8 has got outer measurements of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") and a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Pentax K-5 IIs has measurements of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") with a weight of 760 grams (1.68 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic SZ8 and Pentax K-5 IIs in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you use at the time. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the SZ8 vs the K-5 IIs.

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

Usually, it is difficult to picture the difference between sensor sizing purely by checking a spec sheet. The visual below will give you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ8 and K-5 IIs.

Clearly, both of the cameras posses the exact same resolution albeit different sensor sizing. The SZ8 contains the tinier sensor which should make achieving shallower depth of field harder. The fresher SZ8 provides an edge in sensor innovation.