Olympus SZ-15 vs Pentax Q-S1

On this page, we are comparing the Olympus SZ-15 versus Pentax Q-S1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Olympus and Pentax. There is a big difference among the sensor resolutions of the SZ-15 (16MP) and Q-S1 (12MP) and the SZ-15 (1/2.3") and Q-S1 (1/1.7") posses totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The SZ-15 was unveiled 13 months before the Q-S1 making them a generation apart from each other. The two cameras have different body design with the Olympus SZ-15 being a Compact camera and the Pentax Q-S1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a short introduction of how the SZ-15 matches up versus the Q-S1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-15 and Pentax Q-S1. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-15 Gallery and Pentax Q-S1 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-15 features physical dimensions of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") with a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs) and the Pentax Q-S1 has measurements of 105mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 203 grams (0.45 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SZ-15 versus Pentax Q-S1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you choose during that time. Following is a front view dimension comparison of the SZ-15 compared to the Q-S1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-15 and Q-S1 is 88 and 92 respectively.

Usually, it is very difficult to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing just by seeing specs. The visual below will give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-15 and Q-S1.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The SZ-15 with its smaller sensor will make getting bokeh harder and the Olympus SZ-15 will provide more detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop images more aggressively. The older SZ-15 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.