Nikon 1 V1 vs Pentax Q

Its time to look a little more in depth at the Nikon 1 V1 vs Pentax Q, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by rivals Nikon and Pentax. The image resolution of the 1 V1 (10MP) and the Q (12MP) is fairly comparable but the 1 V1 (1") and Q (1/2.3") provide different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The 1 V1 was revealed 8 months later than the Q and they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving straight to a complete comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the 1 V1 scores against the Q when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon 1 V1 and Pentax Q. The full galleries are viewable at Nikon 1 V1 Gallery and Pentax Q Gallery.

In case you're going to lug around your camera frequently, you have to take into account its weight and volume. The Nikon 1 V1 has physical measurements of 113mm x 76mm x 44mm (4.4" x 3.0" x 1.7") and a weight of 383 grams (0.84 lbs) whilst the Pentax Q has sizing of 98mm x 57mm x 31mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 180 grams (0.40 lbs).

Look at the Nikon 1 V1 vs Pentax Q in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are employing at that moment. Here is a front view overall size comparison of the 1 V1 and the Q.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the 1 V1 and Q is 84 and 93 respectively.

Typically, it is very difficult to picture the contrast in sensor measurements only by checking out a spec sheet. The visual below will help give you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the 1 V1 and Q.

As you can see, the 2 cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The 1 V1 using its larger sensor is going to make achieving shallower depth of field less difficult and the Pentax Q will produce more detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop pics way more aggressively. The newer 1 V1 provides an advantage in sensor tech.