Panasonic FP5 vs Pentax Q-S1

On this page, we will be reviewing the Panasonic FP5 vs Pentax Q-S1, one is a Ultracompact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the FP5 (14MP) and the Q-S1 (12MP) is pretty comparable but the FP5 (1/2.3") and Q-S1 (1/1.7") boast different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The FP5 was introduced 4 years before the Q-S1 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FP5 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax Q-S1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going into a in-depth comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the FP5 scores versus the Q-S1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP5 and Pentax Q-S1. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic FP5 Gallery and Pentax Q-S1 Gallery.

If you're going to travel with your camera often, you'll have to factor its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FP5 has outer dimensions of 101mm x 59mm x 18mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") with a weight of 141 grams (0.31 lbs) and the Pentax Q-S1 has measurements of 105mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") having a weight of 203 grams (0.45 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FP5 vs Pentax Q-S1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you choose during that time. The following is a front view measurements comparison of the FP5 versus the Q-S1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the FP5 and Q-S1 is 95 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it is very difficult to visualize the difference in sensor dimensions merely by seeing technical specs. The pic below should give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the FP5 and Q-S1.

As you can tell, both of these cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The FP5 using its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF harder and the Panasonic FP5 will produce greater detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more aged FP5 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.