Olympus 550WP vs Pentax Q

In this article, we are matching up the Olympus 550WP versus Pentax Q, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the 550WP (10MP) and the Q (12MP) is very comparable and they possess the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The 550WP was launched 3 years before the Q and that is a fairly significant difference as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Olympus 550WP being a Compact camera and the Pentax Q being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting straight into a in depth comparison, below is a short view of how the 550WP matches up against the Q with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Stylus 550WP & Pentax Q. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus 550WP Gallery & Pentax Q Gallery.

When you are looking to lug around your camera regularly, you need to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus 550WP comes with outside dimensions of 94mm x 62mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) while the Pentax Q has proportions of 98mm x 57mm x 31mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") along with a weight of 180 grams (0.40 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus 550WP versus Pentax Q in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you use during that time. Following is the front view proportions comparison of the 550WP and the Q.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the 550WP and Q is 94 and 93 respectively.

Quite often, it's difficult to picture the gap in sensor measurements just by going through a spec sheet. The graphic here will give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the 550WP and Q.

Clearly, each of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but different resolution. You can expect to see the Pentax Q to show more detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop pics a little more aggressively. The older 550WP will be behind in sensor tech.