Pentax K-5 II vs Pentax ist DS2

Here is a extended review of the Pentax K-5 II vs Pentax ist DS2, both Advanced DSLR digital cameras and both are created by Pentax. There exists a sizeable gap between the image resolutions of the K-5 II (16MP) and ist DS2 (6MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor measurements (APS-C).

Photography Glossary

The K-5 II was revealed 7 years later than the ist DS2 and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Mid-size SLR).

Before diving through a in-depth comparison, below is a short view of how the K-5 II scores against the ist DS2 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax K-5 II and Pentax ist DS2. The full galleries are provided at Pentax K-5 II Gallery and Pentax ist DS2 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry your camera frequently, you'll have to factor in its weight and measurements. The Pentax K-5 II features outside measurements of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") with a weight of 760 grams (1.68 lbs) whilst the Pentax ist DS2 has proportions of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") accompanied by a weight of 605 grams (1.33 lbs).

Take a look at the Pentax K-5 II vs Pentax ist DS2 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have during that time. Following is the front view proportions comparison of the K-5 II versus the ist DS2.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the K-5 II and ist DS2 is 60 and 68 respectively.

More often than not, it is very hard to see the gap between sensor sizing just by checking a spec sheet. The graphic here will provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the K-5 II and ist DS2.

As you can see, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same megapixels. You should expect the Pentax K-5 II to resolve greater detail because of its extra 10MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop photographs far more aggressively. The younger K-5 II will have a benefit in sensor technology.