Olympus SP-820UZ vs Pentax Q

The following is a detailed review of the Olympus SP-820UZ and Pentax Q, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the SP-820UZ (14MP) and the Q (12MP) is relatively comparable and both cameras boast the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SP-820UZ was revealed 15 months after the Q which makes them a generation away from each other. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus SP-820UZ being a Compact camera and the Pentax Q being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go into a detailed comparison, here is a quick overview of how the SP-820UZ grades versus the Q when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ & Pentax Q. The full galleries are available at Olympus SP-820UZ Gallery & Pentax Q Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to travel with your camera regularly, you need to take into account its weight and volume. The Olympus SP-820UZ enjoys outside measurements of 117mm x 78mm x 93mm (4.6" x 3.1" x 3.7") along with a weight of 485 grams (1.07 lbs) and the Pentax Q has sizing of 98mm x 57mm x 31mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") and a weight of 180 grams (0.40 lbs).

Check the Olympus SP-820UZ and Pentax Q in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you choose at that moment. Below is a front view measurements comparison of the SP-820UZ versus the Q.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the SP-820UZ and Q is 69 and 93 respectively.

Often, it is very difficult to visualize the gap in sensor dimensions simply by going through technical specs. The image underneath might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the SP-820UZ and Q.

As you have seen, both of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different resolution. You can count on the Olympus SP-820UZ to show extra detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The more modern SP-820UZ provides an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.