Panasonic FS12 vs Pentax Q

The following is a complete review of the Panasonic FS12 and Pentax Q, one is a Ultracompact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the FS12 (12MP) and the Q (12MP) is very close and both cameras provide the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The FS12 was announced 3 years earlier than the Q which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FS12 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax Q being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a short summary of how the FS12 matches up against the Q in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS12 and Pentax Q. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic FS12 Gallery and Pentax Q Gallery.

In case you're planning to travel with your camera, you'll have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FS12 has outer dimensions of 97mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 129 grams (0.28 lbs) whilst the Pentax Q has measurements 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 Panasonic FS12 and Pentax Q in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have at that time. Below is a front view dimension comparison of the FS12 compared to the Q.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the FS12 and Q is 95 and 93 respectively.

Oftentimes, its tough to visualize the contrast in sensor dimensions purely by researching specifications. The image below might give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the FS12 and Q.

Plainly, both of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the same exact resolution and you should expect comparable quality of images but you have to factor the production date of the cameras into account. The more aged FS12 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.