CameraReview

Pentax 645D vs Pentax 645Z — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

Pentax 645D
Pentax
Pentax 645D
DSLR · 40 MP · Medium Format
61
SCORE
$1,953.54
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✓ WINNER
Pentax 645Z
Pentax
Pentax 645Z
DSLR · 51.4 MP · Medium Format · Full HD video
73
SCORE
$2,386.29
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General
Brand PentaxPentax
Model 645D645Z
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20102014
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
01/03/201015/04/2014
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 156 x 117 x 119 mm156 x 117 x 123 mm
Camera weight 1480 g1550 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
40 MP05051.4 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
7264 x 54408256 x 6192
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CCDCMOS
Sensor size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
33 x 4432.8 x 43.8
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Medium FormatMedium Format
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
1.1 fps0453 fps045
Lens mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Pentax 645AF2Pentax 645AF2
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Prime IIPrime III
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
4:34:3
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
160030032800002048003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
1003020010030200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
160030032800002048003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
400080032000400080032000
Autofocus points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
110300270300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
Optical (pentaprism)Optical (pentaprism)
Viewfinder dots N/AN/A
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
N/AFull HD
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
N/A1920 x 1080
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
N/A60 fps
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
N/AMOV, AVI
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen type LCDLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3"3.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
921000115000150000010370001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHCSD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual memory card slots
Battery type D-LI90D-LI90
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
800 shots1505000650 shots1505000
USB charging

The Pentax 645Z emerges as the winner with a score of 73/100, outperforming the Pentax 645D, which scored 61/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, announced in 2010 and 2014, respectively. They share similar dimensions, with the 645D measuring 156 x 117 x 119mm and weighing 1480g, while the 645Z is slightly larger at 156 x 117 x 123mm and weighs 1550g.

The 645Z surpasses the 645D with a lower launch price of $8499 compared to the 645D’s $9400. However, the 645D has a slight advantage in weight, being lighter than the 645Z. Despite the weight difference, the Pentax 645Z’s higher score and lower price make it a more attractive option for photographers. The Pentax 645D may appeal to those who prioritize a lighter camera, but its lower score indicates that it falls short in overall performance compared to the 645Z.

Pentax 645D vs 645Z Overview and Optics

The Pentax 645Z emerges as the winner in the optics comparison, with a score of 79 out of 100, while the Pentax 645D scores 66. Both cameras share some common specifications, including a medium format sensor size, Pentax 645AF2 lens mount, and the absence of image stabilization.

The 645Z outperforms the 645D in several aspects. It boasts a higher resolution with 51.4 megapixels, compared to the 40 megapixels of the 645D. This allows the 645Z to capture more detail and produce higher quality images. The 645Z also has a faster shooting speed of 3 frames per second, enabling it to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively. Additionally, the 645Z features a CMOS sensor and a Prime III processor, which contribute to its superior DXOMARK score of 101, compared to the 645D’s 82. This indicates better overall image quality and low-light performance.

On the other hand, the Pentax 645D has a CCD sensor, which is known for producing images with richer colors and better dynamic range. However, this advantage is not enough to surpass the 645Z’s overall performance.

In comparing the optics of these two cameras, the Pentax 645Z holds a clear advantage due to its higher resolution, faster shooting speed, and better image quality. The 645D’s CCD sensor does offer some benefits in color and dynamic range, but the 645Z’s superior performance makes it the better choice for most photographers.

Pentax 645D vs 645Z Video Performance

When comparing the video capabilities of the Pentax 645D and the Pentax 645Z, it is essential to note that the Pentax 645D does not have any video functionality. Therefore, this comparison will focus on the video capabilities of the Pentax 645Z.

The Pentax 645Z has a video score of 70 out of 100. The camera can record Full HD video with a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The maximum video frame rate for the 645Z is 60 frames per second, providing smooth and clear footage. Additionally, the 645Z has built-in time-lapse functionality, allowing users to capture stunning time-lapse videos without the need for external equipment or software.

Taking into account the video capabilities of both cameras, it is evident that the Pentax 645Z is the only option for those seeking a Pentax medium format camera with video functionality. The 645Z provides Full HD video recording, a high frame rate, and built-in time-lapse capabilities, making it a solid choice for users who require video capabilities in addition to exceptional image quality.

Pentax 645D vs 645Z Features and Benefits

The Pentax 645Z emerges as the winner in this comparison with a feature score of 59 out of 100, while the Pentax 645D scores 54 out of 100. Both cameras have some common specifications, such as a 3-inch screen for the 645D and a 3.2-inch screen for the 645Z. Neither camera has a touchscreen. Additionally, both cameras have Wi-Fi capabilities but lack GPS and Bluetooth features.

The Pentax 645Z surpasses the 645D with a higher screen resolution of 1,037,000 dots compared to the 645D’s 921,000 dots. The 645Z also has a flip screen, which allows for more versatile shooting angles and better framing of subjects. This feature is absent in the 645D, making the 645Z a more convenient and adaptable choice for photographers.

On the other hand, the Pentax 645D does not offer any significant advantages over the 645Z. Both cameras share similar specifications, with the 645Z simply offering a few additional features that enhance its usability and performance.

Considering these factors, it is evident that the Pentax 645Z is a superior choice for photographers due to its higher feature score, larger screen, and flip screen capability. The 645D, while still a capable camera, does not offer any distinct advantages over its counterpart. Therefore, the Pentax 645Z is the recommended option for those seeking a more versatile and user-friendly medium format camera.

Pentax 645D vs 645Z Storage and Battery

The Pentax 645Z outperforms the Pentax 645D in storage and battery, scoring 65/100 compared to the 645D’s 35/100. Both cameras share the same battery type, D-LI90, and do not support USB charging.

The 645Z has an advantage with its two memory card slots, accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, while the 645D only has one slot and accepts SD and SDHC cards. This gives the 645Z more storage flexibility and capacity for photographers.

However, the 645D has a longer battery life of 800 shots, compared to the 645Z’s 650 shots. This allows users to take more photos before needing to replace or recharge the battery.

Considering these points, the Pentax 645Z offers greater storage options and versatility, making it the better choice for photographers who require more storage capacity. The Pentax 645D, on the other hand, is more suitable for those who prioritize longer battery life for extended shooting sessions.

Pentax 645D vs 645Z – Our Verdict

Pentax 645D vs 645Z Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Pentax 645D or the Pentax 645Z: