Pentax 645Z vs Sony NEX-5

Here is a extended assessment of the Pentax 645Z versus Sony NEX-5, former being a Pro DSLR while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Pentax and Sony. There exists a substantial gap among the resolutions of the 645Z (51MP) and NEX-5 (14MP) and the 645Z (Medium format) and NEX-5 (APS-C) posses totally different sensor sizes.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The 645Z was released 3 years later than the NEX-5 and that is a fairly big difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Pentax 645Z being a Large SLR camera and the Sony NEX-5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a short overview of how the 645Z matches up against the NEX-5 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax 645Z & Sony Alpha NEX-5. The complete galleries are available at Pentax 645Z Gallery & Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera, you're going to have to factor in its weight and size. The Pentax 645Z enjoys external dimensions of 156mm x 117mm x 123mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 4.8") accompanied by a weight of 1550 grams (3.42 lbs) and the Sony NEX-5 has specifications of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") having a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Analyze the Pentax 645Z versus Sony NEX-5 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are utilising during that time. Following is a front view physical size comparison of the 645Z compared to the NEX-5.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the 645Z and NEX-5 is 49 and 89 respectively.

Quite often, it's tough to envision the difference in sensor sizing only by viewing technical specs. The photograph underneath should give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the 645Z and NEX-5.

As you have seen, both of those cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The 645Z due to its bigger sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field easier and the Pentax 645Z will result in greater detail as a result of its extra 37MP. Higher resolution will let you crop shots way more aggressively. The newer 645Z will have a benefit in sensor innovation.