Panasonic FS42 vs Pentax Q

Its time to look a bit more in depth at the Panasonic FS42 versus Pentax Q, one being a Ultracompact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the FS42 (10MP) and the Q (12MP) is relatively comparable but the FS42 (1/2.5") and Q (1/2.3") have totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The FS42 was unveiled 3 years prior to the Q and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax Q being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the FS42 matches up against the Q with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 and Pentax Q. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FS42 Gallery and Pentax Q Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera often, you will want to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FS42 enjoys outer dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs) whilst the Pentax Q has dimensions of 98mm x 57mm x 31mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 180 grams (0.40 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic FS42 versus Pentax Q in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are employing at that time. Following is a front view dimension comparison of the FS42 vs the Q.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the FS42 and Q is 95 and 93 respectively.

Generally, it can be hard to see the contrast in sensor sizing just by checking out technical specs. The photograph underneath will help provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the FS42 and Q.

As you can tell, each of the cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The FS42 using its smaller sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field tougher and the Pentax Q will produce greater detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots more aggressively. The older FS42 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.