Panasonic FS42 vs Pentax Q10

Below, we will be reviewing the Panasonic FS42 vs Pentax Q10, one being a Ultracompact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the FS42 (10MP) and the Q10 (12MP) is pretty well matched but the FS42 (1/2.5") and Q10 (1/2.3") come with totally different sensor dimensions.

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The FS42 was launched 4 years earlier than the Q10 and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera and the Pentax Q10 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving in to a full comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the FS42 matches up against the Q10 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 and Pentax Q10. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic FS42 Gallery and Pentax Q10 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry your camera regularly, you have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FS42 has external measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs) whilst the Pentax Q10 has dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs).

Check the Panasonic FS42 vs Pentax Q10 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you choose during that time. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the FS42 against the Q10.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FS42 and Q10 is 95 and 92 respectively.

Quite often, its hard to envision the contrast between sensor sizing just by reading through a spec sheet. The graphic here will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the FS42 and Q10.

Clearly, the two cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The FS42 because of its tinier sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field tougher and the Pentax Q10 will give you greater detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots much more aggressively. The older FS42 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor tech.