Pentax K-5 vs Sony A58

Here is a complete assessment of the Pentax K-5 vs Sony A58, one being a Advanced DSLR and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Pentax and Sony. The sensor resolution of the K-5 (16MP) and the A58 (20MP) is relatively comparable and both cameras offer the same sensor sizes (APS-C).

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The K-5 was revealed 3 years prior to the A58 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Pentax K-5 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Sony A58 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before going into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick summary of how the K-5 scores vs the A58 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax K-5 and Sony SLT-A58. The full galleries are viewable at Pentax K-5 Gallery and Sony A58 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera frequently, you will have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Pentax K-5 has physical dimensions of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") with a weight of 740 grams (1.63 lbs) while the Sony A58 has measurements of 129mm x 95mm x 78mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 3.1") with a weight of 492 grams (1.08 lbs).

Contrast the Pentax K-5 vs Sony A58 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Following is a front view measurement comparison of the K-5 and the A58.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the K-5 and A58 is 60 and 68 respectively.

In many cases, its difficult to visualize the difference in sensor sizing just by going through technical specs. The visual underneath will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the K-5 and A58.

As you can tell, both of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different MP. You should count on the Sony A58 to produce greater detail because of its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots more aggressively. The older K-5 will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.