Pentax 645Z vs Pentax K-5 IIs

In this article, we are analyzing the Pentax 645Z versus Pentax K-5 IIs, one being a Pro DSLR and the other is a Advanced DSLR and both are manufactured by Pentax. There is a significant difference among the image resolutions of the 645Z (51MP) and K-5 IIs (16MP) and the 645Z (Medium format) and K-5 IIs (APS-C) feature different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The 645Z was brought out 11 months later than the K-5 IIs and they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Pentax 645Z being a Large SLR camera and the Pentax K-5 IIs being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before going through a thorough comparison, below is a short highlight of how the 645Z grades against the K-5 IIs for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Pentax 645Z and Pentax K-5 IIs. The entire galleries are available at Pentax 645Z Gallery and Pentax K-5 IIs Gallery.

For those who are aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you will want to consider its weight and volume. The Pentax 645Z comes with external dimensions of 156mm x 117mm x 123mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.8") and a weight of 1550 grams (3.42 lbs) and the Pentax K-5 IIs has sizing of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") along with a weight of 760 grams (1.68 lbs).

Compare the Pentax 645Z versus Pentax K-5 IIs in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are employing at that moment. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the 645Z vs the K-5 IIs.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the 645Z and K-5 IIs is 49 and 60 respectively.

Usually, it is very hard to picture the contrast in sensor measurements purely by going through technical specs. The photograph here will provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the 645Z and K-5 IIs.

As you have seen, both cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The 645Z due to its larger sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field easier and the Pentax 645Z will provide greater detail having its extra 35 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop photos a little more aggressively. The younger 645Z should have an advantage in sensor tech.