Pentax 645Z vs Sony a7R II Comparison
Pentax 645Z
Sony a7R II
Price | |||
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Brand | Pentax | Sony | |
Model | 645Z | a7R II | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2014 | 2015 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | April 15, 2014 | June 10, 2015 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR |  Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Pentax 645Z emerges as the winner with a score of 73/100, while the Sony a7R II trails closely with a score of 70/100. Both cameras share similarities like their release in the mid-2010s and being high-end professional cameras. However, there are key differences that set them apart.
The Pentax 645Z, a DSLR, boasts a larger body (156 x 117 x 123mm) and heavier weight (1550g), which could be advantageous for stability during shoots. On the other hand, the Sony a7R II, a mirrorless camera, offers a more compact size (127 x 96 x 60mm) and lighter weight (625g), making it more travel-friendly and convenient for photographers on the go.
While the Pentax 645Z may be more expensive at $8499 than the Sony a7R II at $3198, it justifies its higher price with better performance in certain aspects. However, the Sony a7R II remains a strong contender, offering a great balance between quality and portability.
Pentax 645Z vs Sony a7R II Overview and Optics
The Sony a7R II wins the optics comparison with a score of 81/100, compared to the Pentax 645Z’s score of 79/100. Both cameras share similarities in their specifications, such as having a CMOS sensor type and offering high-resolution images with 51.4 megapixels for the Pentax 645Z and 42.4 megapixels for the Sony a7R II. Additionally, both cameras have a fast processor, with the Pentax 645Z using Prime III and the Sony a7R II using Bionz X.
The Sony a7R II excels in several areas. It has a higher shooting speed of 5 compared to the Pentax 645Z’s 3, allowing for faster image capture. The Sony a7R II also has image stabilization, which the Pentax 645Z lacks. This feature helps reduce camera shake and improve image quality. Furthermore, the Sony a7R II’s full-frame sensor size and Sony FE lens mount provide more versatility in lens choices.
On the other hand, the Pentax 645Z has a few advantages. Its medium format sensor size captures more detail and produces better image quality. The Pentax 645Z also has a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor at 101, compared to the Sony a7R II’s score of 98. The Pentax 645AF2 lens mount, while not as versatile as the Sony FE mount, offers high-quality lenses specifically designed for medium format cameras.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7R II is better suited for photographers who prioritize shooting speed, image stabilization, and lens versatility. However, the Pentax 645Z is an excellent choice for those who value image quality and detail, thanks to its medium format sensor and higher DXOMARK score.
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Optics
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Pentax 645Z
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Sony a7R II
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 51.4 MP | 42.4 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 8256 x 6192 px | 7952 x 5304 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS | CMOS | |
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. | 32.8 x 43.8 mm | 24 x 35.9 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Medium Format |  Full Frame | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 3 fps | 5 fps | |
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 645AF2 | Sony FE | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Prime III | Bionz X | |
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. |  4:3 |  3:2 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) 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. | 204,800 | 25,600 | |
Minimum 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. | 100 | 50 | |
Maximum 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. | 204800 | 102400 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 30 s | 30 s | |
Maximum 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. | 1/ 4000 s | 1/ 8000 s | |
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. | 27 | 399 | |
In-body Stabilization 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) | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | N/A | 2,359,296 dots |
Pentax 645Z vs Sony a7R II Video Performance
The Pentax 645Z outperforms the Sony a7R II in video capabilities, scoring 70/100 compared to the Sony’s 56/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, but each has its own advantages.
Both the Pentax 645Z and the Sony a7R II have Full HD video resolution. However, the Pentax 645Z has a maximum video frame rate of 60fps, while the Sony a7R II has a maximum frame rate of 30fps. This means that the Pentax 645Z can capture smoother and more detailed videos. Additionally, the Pentax 645Z has built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Sony a7R II lacks. This feature allows the Pentax 645Z to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software.
On the other hand, the Sony a7R II offers 4K video resolution, with maximum video dimensions of 3840 x 2160. This is a higher resolution than the Pentax 645Z, which has a maximum video dimension of 1920 x 1080. The Sony a7R II’s 4K resolution can produce sharper and more detailed videos than the Pentax 645Z’s Full HD resolution.
Taking these factors into account, the Pentax 645Z is the better choice for those who prioritize smooth, high frame rate videos and built-in time-lapse functionality. However, the Sony a7R II is the better choice for those who value higher video resolution and detail. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the specific video requirements and preferences of the user.
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Video
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Pentax 645Z
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Sony a7R II
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |  | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  Full HD |  4K | |
Max Video Dimensions 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. | 1920 x 1080 px | 3840 x 2160 px | |
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. | 60 p | 30 p | |
Time-Lapse 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. | MOV, AVI | XAVCS, AVCHD, MP4 |
Pentax 645Z vs Sony a7R II Features and Benefits
The Pentax 645Z triumphs over the Sony a7R II in features with a score of 59 out of 100, compared to the Sony’s 57. Both cameras share several specifications, including the lack of a touchscreen, GPS, and Bluetooth. They also both feature flip screens and Wi-Fi connectivity.
The Pentax 645Z outperforms the Sony a7R II in terms of screen size, boasting a 3.2-inch screen compared to the Sony’s 3-inch screen. This larger screen allows for easier navigation and better viewing of captured images. Despite the Sony a7R II having a higher screen resolution of 1,228,800 dots compared to the Pentax 645Z’s 1,037,000 dots, the difference in resolution does not significantly impact the overall user experience.
On the other hand, the Sony a7R II’s higher screen resolution does provide slightly sharper and clearer image previews. This advantage can be beneficial for photographers who require precise focus and composition in their images. However, this improvement in resolution is not enough to surpass the Pentax 645Z’s overall feature score.
When comparing the Pentax 645Z and Sony a7R II, the Pentax 645Z proves to be the superior camera in terms of features, mainly due to its larger screen size. The Sony a7R II’s higher screen resolution offers a minor advantage, but it is not enough to outshine the Pentax 645Z.
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Features
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Pentax 645Z
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Sony a7R II
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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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 | LCD | LCD | |
Touch Screen Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. |  | | |
Screen Size |  3.2" |  3" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 1,037,000 dots | 1,228,800 dots | |
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 |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Pentax 645Z vs Sony a7R II Storage and Battery
The Pentax 645Z surpasses the Sony a7R II in storage and battery with a score of 65/100 versus 16/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. However, the Pentax 645Z has two memory card slots, while the Sony a7R II only has one. Additionally, the Sony a7R II supports Memory Stick Duo, Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo cards.
The Pentax 645Z outperforms the Sony a7R II in battery life, offering 650 shots with its D-LI90 battery compared to the Sony a7R II’s 290 shots using the NP-FW50 battery. Neither camera provides USB charging.
Despite its lower score, the Sony a7R II’s compatibility with Memory Stick cards may be an advantage for some users. However, the Pentax 645Z’s longer battery life and extra memory card slot make it the better option for storage and battery capabilities.
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Storage and Battery
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Pentax 645Z
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Sony a7R II
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | D-LI90 | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 650 shots | 290 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Pentax 645Z
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Sony a7R II
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 26 bits | 26 bits | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 14.7 EVs | 13.9 EVs | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 4505 | 3434 |
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Scores
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Pentax 645Z
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Sony a7R II
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Pentax 645Z vs Sony a7R II – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Pentax 645Z or the Sony a7R II:
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User Scores
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Pentax 645Z
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Sony a7R II
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B&H photo video |
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