Pentax K-5 vs Sony A77

Here, we are looking at the Pentax K-5 versus Sony A77, both Advanced DSLR digital cameras by rivals Pentax and Sony. There is a huge difference between the image resolutions of the K-5 (16MP) and A77 (24MP) but both cameras posses the identical sensor sizes (APS-C).

Photography Glossary

The K-5 was introduced 10 months prior to the A77 which means that they are of a similar generation. Both cameras feature the same body design (Mid-size SLR).

Before we go right into a in depth comparison, here is a short introduction of how the K-5 grades against the A77 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Pentax K-5 and Sony SLT-A77. The whole galleries are available at Pentax K-5 Gallery and Sony A77 Gallery.

When you are looking to travel with your camera often, you will need to take into account its weight and volume. The Pentax K-5 comes with outside measurements of 131mm x 97mm x 73mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 2.9") having a weight of 740 grams (1.63 lbs) while the Sony A77 has sizing of 143mm x 104mm x 81mm (5.6" x 4.1" x 3.2") with a weight of 732 grams (1.61 lbs).

Take a look at the Pentax K-5 versus Sony A77 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you use at that time. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the K-5 compared to the A77.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the K-5 and A77 is 60 and 59 respectively.

Often, it is very hard to visualise the difference between sensor dimensions just by reading through technical specs. The picture below should give you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the K-5 and A77.

As you have seen, both of these cameras come with the identical sensor size but not the same resolution. You should anticipate the Sony A77 to resolve greater detail using its extra 8 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The more aged K-5 is going to be behind in sensor tech.