Olympus E-PL8 vs Pentax Q-S1

Here is a in depth analysis of the Olympus E-PL8 and Pentax Q-S1, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by companies Olympus and Pentax. There exists a considerable gap among the resolutions of the E-PL8 (16MP) and Q-S1 (12MP) and the E-PL8 (Four Thirds) and Q-S1 (1/1.7") enjoy totally different sensor dimensions.

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The E-PL8 was announced 2 years later than the Q-S1 and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving through a complete comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the E-PL8 grades vs the Q-S1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-PL8 & Pentax Q-S1. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL8 Gallery & Pentax Q-S1 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera often, you'll need to factor its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL8 has exterior measurements of 115mm x 67mm x 38mm (4.5" x 2.6" x 1.5") and a weight of 357 grams (0.79 lbs) while 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).

Contrast the Olympus E-PL8 and Pentax Q-S1 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the E-PL8 compared to the Q-S1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-PL8 and Q-S1 is 86 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it is tough to see the difference in sensor sizing just by seeing technical specs. The graphic underneath will help provide you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PL8 and Q-S1.

As you have seen, each of these cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The E-PL8 using its larger sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field less difficult and the Olympus E-PL8 will produce more detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics somewhat more aggressively. The newer E-PL8 will have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.