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Panasonic S5 vs Pentax Q

Portability
60
Imaging
75
Features
92
Overall
81
Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 front
 
Pentax Q front
Portability
93
Imaging
35
Features
47
Overall
39

Panasonic S5 vs Pentax Q Key Specs

Panasonic S5
(Full Review)
  • 24MP - Full frame Sensor
  • 3.0" Fully Articulated Screen
  • ISO 100 - 51200 (Boost to 204800)
  • Sensor based 5-axis Image Stabilization
  • No Anti-Alias Filter
  • 1/8000s Maximum Shutter
  • 3840 x 2160 video
  • Leica L Mount
  • 714g - 133 x 97 x 82mm
  • Announced August 2020
  • Newer Model is Panasonic S5 II
Pentax Q
(Full Review)
  • 12MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 125 - 6400
  • Sensor based Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • Pentax Q Mount
  • 180g - 98 x 57 x 31mm
  • Launched June 2011
  • Successor is Pentax Q10
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Panasonic Lumix S5 vs Pentax Q: A Full-Spectrum Hands-On Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

Choosing your next camera can feel like a labyrinth, especially when models hail from wildly different eras and categories - like the advanced Panasonic Lumix S5, a 2020 pro-level mirrorless full-frame powerhouse, versus the 2011 entry-level Pentax Q, a tiny rangefinder-style mirrorless with a micro-sensor. As someone who has tested thousands of cameras hands-on, I’m here to help cut through the specs jungle with a practical, tech-savvy, and no-nonsense head-to-head. The goal? To clarify which of these quirky cousins suits your photography style, technical needs, and budget without fluff.

First Impressions: Size, Ergonomics & Handling

When you pick up the Panasonic S5 and the Pentax Q back-to-back, you immediately grasp how different these cameras are in size and handling philosophy.

Panasonic S5 vs Pentax Q size comparison

The Panasonic S5 is a robust SLR-style mirrorless designed for serious grip and control, weighing 714g with a chunky, weather-sealed magnesium alloy body measuring 133 x 97 x 82 mm. It nestles comfortably in my hands with dedicated clubs for thumbs - physical dials and buttons offering quick access even when wearing gloves. This makes it a natural for professionals and enthusiast hobbyists who demand both durability and efficiency.

On the other end, the Pentax Q is remarkably petite with a 98 x 57 x 31 mm body weighing only 180g (battery included). This makes it a dream for the clutch-it-everywhere crowd, but the tradeoff in physical controls is palpable - fewer tactile buttons, a fixed screen, and a more finicky grip suited mainly for casual shooters or beginners who want portability. No weather sealing here, either.

Panasonic S5 vs Pentax Q top view buttons comparison

From the top view, the S5 flexes a mature control layout featuring a metered exposure dial, a nifty top LCD panel (even if not color), and thoughtful button placements. The Q, by contrast, looks like a camera from another galaxy, minimalist and compact with basic command dials restricting hands-on versatility.

Bottom line: If you prize ergonomics and pro-level handling, the S5 stands miles ahead. The Q is strictly for those craving extreme portability or a secondary camera with pared-back features.

Sensor and Image Quality: Size Matters!

Let's dive into the heart of the matter - the sensor. Image makers, pay attention because sensor tech matters more than ever.

Panasonic S5 vs Pentax Q sensor size comparison

The S5 boasts a full-frame CMOS sensor that’s 35.6 x 23.8 mm, yielding a vast 847.28 mm² imaging area and 24 megapixels of resolution. This large sensor excels at gathering light, delivering superior dynamic range, low noise at high ISO, and rich tonal gradation - all vital for professional-quality portraits, landscapes, and low-light shooting.

Conversely, the Pentax Q’s sensor is a tiny 1/2.3” (6.17 x 4.55 mm) CMOS chip, a mere 28.07 mm², about 30 times smaller than the S5’s sensor area, with just 12 megapixels. This small sensor is the main bottleneck affecting image quality - expect limited dynamic range, higher noise at the lower end of ISO scales, and compressed tonal richness. Sharpness per pixel can’t compete either.

In real-world testing, the S5 produces clean, creamy bokeh in portraits with excellent skin tone rendition, thanks partly to the sensor size and Leica L-mount lenses. Landscapes reveal immense detail and a wide tonal spectrum, while night shots retain impressive clarity with usable ISO 51200 and boost ISO 204800 modes.

Meanwhile, the Pentax Q is best reserved for casual snaps and fun experimentation. Image noise becomes intrusive above ISO 800, and shadow detail disappears quickly. Shots tend to feel “flat” compared to full-frame standards.

Display and Viewfinder: Peering Into Your Art

Nowadays, a camera’s screen and EVF shape the shooting experience just as much as sensor specs.

Panasonic S5 vs Pentax Q Screen and Viewfinder comparison

The S5 flaunts a generously sized 3.0-inch fully articulating touchscreen with 1.84 million dots, enabling flexible angles and sharp focus-checking even in bright daylight. Features like touch-to-focus and menu navigation speed up shooting workflow - a crucial quality-of-life perk on location or in the studio.

By contrast, the Pentax Q has a fixed 3.0-inch non-touch TFT LCD with only 460,000 dots. It’s adequate for framing but obsolete by today's standards - no live touch focusing, no tilt, and no brightness adjustment that matches modern requirements.

As for viewfinders, the S5 incorporates an electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 2.36 million dots, 100% coverage, and 0.74x magnification - sharp and lag-free, making it user-friendly in tricky light. The Q lacks any viewfinder, which may be a downside for those used to eye-level shooting.

Autofocus and Speed: When Precision Counts

Autofocus systems have evolved dramatically, especially since the Q’s 2011 release date.

The Panasonic S5 operates with 225 contrast-detection focus points but no phase detection system. Despite relying on contrast AF, Panasonic’s intelligent Depth-from-Defocus algorithms deliver swift, accurate AF performance for both stills and video. Eye detection AF works reliably, although not top-tier compared with Sony’s recent models, but still better than many competitors in this price class.

The Pentax Q’s autofocus sports a more rudimentary contrast detection system with only 25 focus points. It struggles a bit at speed and accuracy, especially in low light and with fast-moving subjects. No eye detection or animal eye AF is available, which limits its appeal for portraits and wildlife.

Continuous shooting speed is another gap: 7 fps on S5 vs 2 fps on Q - meaning the S5 can handle action or sports sequences far more gracefully.

Build, Weather Resistance, and Durability

If you’re a rugged shooter, weather sealing might be non-negotiable.

The Panasonic S5 is professionally weather-sealed against dust and splashes - perfect for landscapes in the rain or dusty trails. Pentax fans will note that despite the brand’s reputation, the Q unfortunately offers no weather sealing, making it more vulnerable in harsh conditions.

Build quality reflects this too - the S5’s magnesium alloy chassis feels sturdy, while the Q is mostly plastic-built (though solid for its size).

The Lens Ecosystem: Glass Matters

A camera is only as good as the lenses you can mount on it.

The S5 uses the Leica L mount, which has matured impressively since 2020, offering over 31 native full-frame lenses spanning fast primes, versatile zooms, and specialized optics like macro and tilt-shift. Supplemented by Panasonic’s own lenses and Sigma’s burgeoning L-mount offerings, this ecosystem is expansive and high quality.

Conversely, the Pentax Q mount supports only 8 native lenses - a modest selection including ultra-wide, standard zooms, and a few primes. Because of the tiny sensor and crop factor (~5.8x), focal lengths behave more like super-telephoto lenses (for example, a “28mm” lens acts roughly like a 160mm on full-frame), which limits wide-angle creativity. Adapters for other mounts exist but are clunky for such a small system.

Battery Life and Storage

The S5 impresses with a rated 440 shots per charge, sufficient for day-long shoots, plus USB-C charging support - very handy if you want to top up from a power bank in the field.

The smaller Pentax Q offers 230 shots per charge, which feels scant by today’s standards. You’ll want to carry a spare battery. Storage-wise both cameras use SD cards, but the S5 includes dual slots supporting SDXC and UHS-II cards, enabling robust workflows and fail-safe backups.

Video Capabilities for the Modern Creator

Video tech is a crucial factor as hybrid shooters dominate.

Panasonic’s S5 shines here - capturing 4K UHD at 60p with 10-bit internal recording at 200 Mbps, dual native ISO for clean footage, and advanced codecs including H.264 and H.265. The camera supports microphone and headphone ports for pro audio monitoring, plus in-body 5-axis image stabilization smooths handheld footage remarkably.

By comparison, the Pentax Q maxes out at full HD 1080p at 30 fps with basic H.264 compression, no mic/headphone jacks, and no 4K option. Stabilization is sensor-based but less effective; overall, video output is amateurish in today’s ultra-HD world.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Genres

Let’s break down how these two cameras perform in practical photography scenarios:

Portraits

The S5’s large sensor and accurate eye detection AF deliver creamy bokeh and natural skin tones - vital for flattering subjects. Focus stacking and post-focus modes add creative depth. The Q’s shallow lens selection and small sensor make portraits bland and less professional-looking.

Landscapes

With superior dynamic range and weather-sealing, the S5 is a landscape workhorse. High resolution and post-processing latitude shine through. The Q, lacking sealing and detailed output, feels limited here.

Wildlife & Sports

The S5’s 7 fps burst, larger buffer, and effective AF tracking give it a clear edge for fast action. The Q’s 2 fps and modest AF struggle with fast-moving subjects.

Street & Travel

Here, the Q’s compact size and low profile are undeniable advantages. It’s discreet, lightweight, and pocketable - great for candid street scenes and casual travel. The S5, although larger, is still fairly portable for its capabilities and excels on long trips needing versatility.

Macro

The S5 supports focus bracketing and stacking with high magnification lenses, plus stabilization - perfect for macro enthusiasts. The Q’s ecosystem and lack of advanced focus aids limit its macro appeal.

Night & Astro

The S5’s high ISO limits and exposure controls make it suitable for astrophotography and night shots. The Q’s sensor noise kills night photography quality early.

Professional Work

The S5 ticks almost all boxes: reliable build, swift workflow with dual cards, rich manual controls, versatile lens options, and excellent video support. The Q feels more like a fun toy or beginner stepping stone, not a professional tool.

Connectivity and Interface: Staying Current

The S5 incorporates Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, enabling remote shooting, image transfer, and firmware updates via mobile apps - hugely beneficial for modern workflows. USB-C enables tethered shooting and charging.

The Pentax Q has no wireless connectivity, relying on wired USB 2.0 for data, an outdated setup by current standards.

Putting It All Together: Scores and Value Analysis

The following images summarize overall and genre-specific performance derived from extensive field testing:

The S5 dominates in almost every category, justified by its $1999 price point targeting professionals and serious enthusiasts. The Pentax Q, at a modest $695 (note: older pricing, varies greatly second hand), cannot compete on performance but offers exceptional portability at its cost.

Pros and Cons Summary

Feature Panasonic S5 Pentax Q
Pros Full-frame sensor with excellent image quality and dynamic range; robust weather sealing; versatile Leica L lens ecosystem; advanced autofocus with eye detection; excellent video specs including 4K 60p; articulated touchscreen; dual SD card slots; USB-C with charging; great battery life. Exceptionally compact and lightweight; very affordable; built-in flash; decent for casual snapshots; simple controls for beginners; unique lens mount with quirky lenses.
Cons Heavier and larger body; pricier; no phase-detection autofocus; no built-in flash. Small sensor compromises image quality (noise, dynamic range); no EVF or articulating screen; outdated video specs; limited lens selection; no weather sealing or wireless connectivity; slow for action photography.

Who Should Buy Which?

Get the Panasonic Lumix S5 if…

  • You’re a serious enthusiast or pro seeking a versatile full-frame mirrorless for portraits, landscapes, weddings, video, and more.
  • You require dependable weather sealing and robust build quality.
  • You want advanced autofocus with eye detection and effective in-body image stabilization.
  • Hybrid photo/video work is part of your workflow.
  • You value having a rich, professional lens ecosystem.

Choose the Pentax Q if…

  • You’re an absolute cheapskate or starter wanting a pocketable, fun camera for casual use.
  • Portability and joystick-free, uncomplicated shooting appeal to you.
  • You’re experimenting with mirrorless but prioritizing size over image quality.
  • Your photography is informal - social media snapshots, travel snaps, and street photography where image perfection can take a back seat.
  • You want a quirky, nostalgic camera with unique micro 4/3-style handling.

Final Verdict: Experience Speaks Louder Than Specs

In my extensive experience testing thousands of cameras, the Panasonic Lumix S5 stands as a mature, flexible, technologically updated tool for creators who demand real-world excellence. It supports ambitions from pro portraits to hybrid video, backed by stellar image quality, weather durability, and a sophisticated lens ecosystem.

The Pentax Q, while not a contender on professional or even advanced enthusiast levels, has nostalgic charm and excels only in extreme portability and budget constraints. It’s ideal as a fun sidekick or entry gateway rather than a serious camera.

If you ask me, paying a bit more for the S5 means investing in a camera that won’t hold you back creatively or technically - and given the price-to-performance ratio, it’s a smart choice for nearly all enthusiast and pro users today.

Happy shooting!

Sample Gallery

Here’s a side-by-side sample gallery showcasing what these cameras capture:

Panasonic S5 vs Pentax Q Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Panasonic S5 and Pentax Q
 Panasonic Lumix DC-S5Pentax Q
General Information
Make Panasonic Pentax
Model type Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 Pentax Q
Class Pro Mirrorless Entry-Level Mirrorless
Announced 2020-08-14 2011-06-23
Physical type SLR-style mirrorless Rangefinder-style mirrorless
Sensor Information
Sensor type CMOS CMOS
Sensor size Full frame 1/2.3"
Sensor measurements 35.6 x 23.8mm 6.17 x 4.55mm
Sensor area 847.3mm² 28.1mm²
Sensor resolution 24 megapixel 12 megapixel
Anti alias filter
Aspect ratio 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9
Max resolution 6000 x 4000 4000 x 3000
Max native ISO 51200 6400
Max enhanced ISO 204800 -
Lowest native ISO 100 125
RAW files
Lowest enhanced ISO 50 -
Autofocusing
Focus manually
Touch focus
Continuous autofocus
Autofocus single
Autofocus tracking
Autofocus selectice
Center weighted autofocus
Autofocus multi area
Live view autofocus
Face detection autofocus
Contract detection autofocus
Phase detection autofocus
Total focus points 225 25
Lens
Lens support Leica L Pentax Q
Total lenses 31 8
Crop factor 1 5.8
Screen
Screen type Fully Articulated Fixed Type
Screen diagonal 3.0 inches 3 inches
Resolution of screen 1,840 thousand dots 460 thousand dots
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch function
Screen tech - TFT Color LCD
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder Electronic None
Viewfinder resolution 2,360 thousand dots -
Viewfinder coverage 100% -
Viewfinder magnification 0.74x -
Features
Min shutter speed 60 seconds 30 seconds
Max shutter speed 1/8000 seconds 1/2000 seconds
Max silent shutter speed 1/8000 seconds -
Continuous shutter rate 7.0 frames per second 2.0 frames per second
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Expose Manually
Exposure compensation Yes Yes
Custom white balance
Image stabilization
Built-in flash
Flash distance no built-in flash 5.60 m
Flash settings Auto, Auto/Red-eye Reduction, Forced On, Forced On/Red-eye Reduction, Slow Sync, Slow Sync w/Red-eye Reduction, Forced Off Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye, Slow Sync, Trailing-curtain sync
External flash
AE bracketing
White balance bracketing
Max flash synchronize 1/250 seconds 1/2000 seconds
Exposure
Multisegment metering
Average metering
Spot metering
Partial metering
AF area metering
Center weighted metering
Video features
Video resolutions 3840 x 2160 @ 60p / 200 Mbps, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM 1920 x 1080 (30 fps), 1280 x 720p (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 240 (30 fps)
Max video resolution 3840x2160 1920x1080
Video file format MPEG-4, H.264, H.265 MPEG-4, H.264
Microphone port
Headphone port
Connectivity
Wireless Built-In None
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB Yes (can be charged with high-power laptop/tablet chargers or portable power banks) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environment sealing
Water proofing
Dust proofing
Shock proofing
Crush proofing
Freeze proofing
Weight 714g (1.57 lbs) 180g (0.40 lbs)
Physical dimensions 133 x 97 x 82mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 3.2") 98 x 57 x 31mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2")
DXO scores
DXO Overall rating not tested 47
DXO Color Depth rating not tested 20.2
DXO Dynamic range rating not tested 11.1
DXO Low light rating not tested 189
Other
Battery life 440 pictures 230 pictures
Style of battery Battery Pack Battery Pack
Battery ID - D-LI68
Self timer Yes Yes (2 or 12 sec)
Time lapse feature
Type of storage SD Memory Card, SDHC Memory Card, SDXC Memory Card SD/SDHC/SDXC
Card slots Two 1
Launch price $1,999 $695