Nikon Z30 vs Pentax Q-S1

Here is a extended overview of the Nikon Z30 and Pentax Q-S1, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by manufacturers Nikon and Pentax. There is a sizable difference among the resolutions of the Z30 (21MP) and Q-S1 (12MP) and the Z30 (APS-C) and Q-S1 (1/1.7") posses totally different sensor measurements.

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The Z30 was brought out 8 years later than the Q-S1 and that is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Nikon Z30 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax Q-S1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a short view of how the Z30 grades vs the Q-S1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Z30 & Pentax Q-S1. The entire galleries are viewable at Nikon Z30 Gallery & Pentax Q-S1 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry your camera, you should factor in its weight and size. The Nikon Z30 features exterior dimensions of 128mm x 74mm x 60mm (5.0" x 2.9" x 2.4") having a weight of 405 grams (0.89 lbs) and the Pentax Q-S1 has specifications of 105mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 203 grams (0.45 lbs).

Examine the Nikon Z30 and Pentax Q-S1 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are utilising during that time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the Z30 against the Q-S1.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the Z30 and Q-S1 is 79 and 92 respectively.

Usually, it is difficult to visualise the gap in sensor sizing purely by researching technical specs. The graphic here will help provide you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the Z30 and Q-S1.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The Z30 featuring a larger sensor will make achieving shallow DOF easier and the Nikon Z30 will render more detail having its extra 9 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop images a bit more aggressively. The fresher Z30 will have an advantage in sensor tech.