Panasonic Lumix FX75 vs Pentax Q10: Which Compact Camera Fits Your Photography Life?

When choosing a compact camera, it’s easy to get lost amid specs, buzzwords, and marketing fluff. I’ve spent years testing cameras in the field - from urban street corners to rugged wilderness - and today we’re diving deep into two petite shooters that punch above their weight in distinct ways: the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX75 and the Pentax Q10.

Despite both being small-sensor compacts from roughly the same era, they differ quite a bit in design philosophy, performance, and versatility. Whether you’re a casual snappy or a budding enthusiast hungry for creative control, this detailed face-off will shine some light on which camera deserves a spot in your bag.

Let’s roll up our sleeves and see how these two small but mighty contenders stack up.

Size, Build, and Handling: Comfort in Your Hands

The first thing you notice is the Panasonic FX75’s ultra-slim, pocketable frame versus the slightly chunkier and rangefinder-style Pentax Q10.

At 103x55x23mm and 165 grams, the FX75 sits comfortably in a jacket pocket - perfect for those daily carry-on adventures or travel when you don’t want a bulk monster. Its minimalist design keeps things straightforward, although it lacks any real grip clubs for thumbs. It feels a bit more like a sophisticated point-and-shoot without much to grab onto for extended shooting sessions.

Contrast that with the Pentax Q10’s 102x58x34mm dimension and 200 grams weight. It’s thicker, but that extra girth translates into a more confident hold and well-spaced buttons - definitely more comfortable if you’re serious about manual control or long outings. The Q10’s rangefinder-style body also implies a more “camera-like” presence, which some photographers find inspiring.

From a control standpoint, Panasonic’s FX75 leans heavily on automation - no shutter or aperture priority modes, no manual exposure dial, and a fixed lens. The buttons cluster around the right hand but feel a bit cramped due to the camera’s size. The touchscreen offers some ease in menu navigation, but tap-to-focus is limited to contrast-detect AF.

The Pentax Q10, on the other hand, brings a dedicated mode dial, exposure compensation dial, and full manual exposure control. Its buttons are tactile, and the presence of a hot shoe invites external flash units - something missing in the FX75. While the Q10’s menu isn’t quite as slick as newer models, it remains accessible for people ready to dive deeper than the “auto” box.

In summary:

• FX75 excels in pocketability and simplicity.
• Q10 shines with handling comfort and physical controls.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: When Hobbyists Geek Out

Both cameras sport a 1/2.3-inch sensor, which is pretty small by today’s standards and places them firmly in the compact segment rather than mirrorless ‘serious’ territory.

Panasonic’s FX75 utilizes a 14-megapixel CCD sensor, known for excellent color fidelity but a weaker performer in low light owing to the inherent noise characteristics of CCDs. The fixed lens covering 24-120mm equivalent with max aperture F2.2-5.9 offers decent versatility for everyday shooting.

Pentax Q10, meanwhile, packs a 12-megapixel CMOS sensor with sensor-based image stabilization - a bonus that helps manage shake across lenses (and more useful than you’d think at longer focal lengths). From my tests, the CMOS sensor handles higher ISOs with less noise and delivers a wider dynamic range than the FX75 - 26 vs 14 MP resolution isn’t far apart, but the Q10’s files feel cleaner under challenging light.

Notably, the Q10 supports RAW shooting - a massive advantage if you want to push colors and exposure in post.

The lack of RAW and the relatively modest ISO ceiling (max 6400 native) on the FX75 limit creative latitude, especially in dim scenes. Meanwhile, the Q10’s 12-bit processing coupled with 10.9 EV dynamic range (per DxO measurements) produce images capable of retaining shadow detail and highlight richness, making landscapes and event photos stand out.

LCD and Viewfinder: What You See Is What You Get?

Let’s compare the viewing options because framing matters!

The FX75 sports a 2.7-inch fixed, touchscreen LCD at 230k dots, fine for reviewing shots but lesser in resolution and size compared to more modern displays. The touchscreen simplifies menu navigation but offers limited touch focusing. Unfortunately, no electronic viewfinder (EVF) means you must rely entirely on this LCD, which can be tough in bright outdoor conditions.

The Pentax Q10 steps up with a 3-inch 460k-dot TFT LCD (no touchscreen here, though) and offers an optional optical viewfinder. While an add-on EVF would be preferable, this hybrid approach alleviates some frustrations. The bigger, sharper screen makes framing and menu control more comfortable, especially when shooting outdoors.

Between the two, the Q10 provides a more versatile composition experience, especially for those wanting a traditional camera feel.

Autofocus and Speed: Catching Goldmets and Quick Moments

Autofocus (AF) performance remains one of the top priorities, especially for wildlife, sports, or street photography.

The Panasonic FX75 offers contrast-detection AF with face detection, which is surprisingly responsive for a compact from 2010. Continuous AF mode enables some tracking, but the dual-core processor and fixed lens design keep it conservative.

The Pentax Q10 boasts a more sophisticated contrast-detection system with 25 focus points, including selective AF area options and face detection. It supports continuous AF tracking and selective AF modes - features noticeably absent from the simpler FX75. The burst rate climbs to 5fps vs. 2fps on the FX75, a benefit for capturing fleeting action in sports and wildlife.

However, neither camera uses phase-detect AF or hybrid AF technology, so expect hunting in low light or fast-moving subjects.

For casual candid snaps or family events, the FX75 will suffice. For enthusiasts craving more precision and tracking, the Q10 is the hands-down winner.

Lens Ecosystem and Versatility: Fixed vs Interchangeable

This is where the cameras part ways sharply.

The FX75’s fixed 24-120mm (5x zoom) lens with max aperture F2.2–5.9 means no swapping lenses or upgrades. It’s great for day-to-day shooting, street scenes, portraits, and some casual macro down to 3cm. The optical image stabilization helps steady handheld shots at longer focal lengths, but you’re locked to this single lens character.

By contrast, the Pentax Q10 uses the Pentax Q mount system which supports 8 native lenses - from ultra-wide angles to telephoto zooms and macro primes. Despite the small sensor undersizing, this modular system can feel like a mini-CS camera kit for enthusiasts.

Lenses include bright primes suited for portraiture with pleasing bokeh, and macro dedicated lenses for close-up work. Add in Pentax’s sensor-shift stabilization (works with all Q lenses), and the Q10 delivers a flexible platform unheard of in a sub-compact package.

If you’re an aspiring photographer who values experimentation with glass, go Q10. For grab-and-go simplicity, FX75.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Daily Use

Battery endurance and memory options impact real-world shooting.

The FX75 has no official CIPA battery life rating, but its small battery and straightforward processing mean modest usage yields moderate shots on a charge. It uses SD cards and includes internal storage.

The Pentax Q10 rated for about 270 shots per charge (a bit lean compared to newer mirrorless rigs but manageable for casual outings). SD/SDHC/SDXC cards only, no internal storage. I found it wise to carry a spare battery around.

USB 2.0 and HDMI ports exist on both, but neither supports Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which is a shame in a 2012 model and limits instant sharing workflows.

Environmental Durability: Not Rugged, But Light Enough

Neither camera offers weather sealing, dustproof, shockproof, or freezeproof protection. Both are best used as gentle companions in fair weather or indoors.

The FX75’s small and streamlined shell feels delicate if you’re tossing it in a backpack without protection.

The Pentax Q10 is sturdier, with a rangefinder build and care in button design to better tolerate handling, though still no outdoor abuse champ.

Video and Multimedia: HD for Simple Storytelling

Video specs illustrate contemporary usage.

The FX75 shoots up to 1280x720p at 30fps, recorded in AVCHD Lite or Motion JPEG format. Audio is built-in with no external mic input; stabilization aids handheld footage. Video modes are minimal with no manual exposure while recording.

Pentax Q10 advances to full HD 1920x1080p at 30fps, supporting MPEG-4 and H.264 encoding. It lacks external mic jacks but offers time-lapse recording, a neat creative tool for enthusiasts. The sensor stabilization benefits video clarity handheld.

Although neither can replace a dedicated camcorder, the Q10 provides more creative flexibility for vloggers or casual filmmakers.

The Real-World Experience: Portraits, Landscapes, and Beyond

Now, let’s look at practical uses where the cameras shine or struggle.

Portrait Photography

The FX75’s fixed lens reaches about 120mm, a decent range for headshots. However, the relatively slow maximum aperture at the long end (F5.9) restricts shallow depth-of-field and creamy bokeh effects. Skin tones render warmly and faithfully thanks to the CCD, but the inability to shoot RAW limits post-processing flexibility.

The Pentax Q10’s ability to swap to bright primes like the 35mm F1.9 equivalent means better subject isolation, softer backgrounds, and more professional portrait results. Face detection autofocus improves eye sharpness reliability.

Landscape Photography

Both have the wide end of around 24mm equivalent, though the Q10’s interchangeable lenses offer ultra-wide-angle options for grand vistas.

The FX75’s relatively lower dynamic range and fixed lens limit creative latitude in high-contrast scenes. I’ve often noted blocked shadows or blown highlights in sunset shots.

Q10’s cleaner files, ability to shoot RAW, and higher dynamic range deliver noticeably richer landscape images that endure print or serious digital edits.

Wildlife and Sports

Neither is a pro sports shooter, but Q10’s faster burst rate and better AF tracking handle moderate action better than the plodding FX75.

That said, both systems’ tiny sensors limit telephoto reach. The Q10’s lens ecosystem includes longer lenses, but noise performance often suffers in higher ISOs required for fast shutter speeds.

Street Photography

The FX75’s small size and silent operation make it less intrusive - ideal for candid street moments if you prefer blending in.

The Q10’s larger build can be more noticeable but rewarded by faster operation and manual control for decisive moments.

Macro and Close-up

The FX75 focuses down to 3cm in macro mode, respectable for casual close-ups but limited.

Pentax Q10’s dedicated macro lenses with stabilization provide better precision, magnification, and sharpness for detailed nature photography or product shots.

Night and Astro Shooting

Small sensors are not astro-friendly. However, Q10’s CMOS sensor and higher dynamic range make it the better pick for moderate night scenes. Its RAW files allow noise reduction software to work magic later.

FX75’s CCD struggles with noise, and limited manual controls make night photography more a guessing game.

Travel Photography

Given size and weight, FX75 is the better daily traveler’s partner: fits in a pocket, simple to operate, and decent zoom range for walk-around versatility.

Q10 is bulkier but offers creative control, lens flexibility, and a boost in image quality when you have room for the extra weight and bulk.

Professional Work

Neither camera meets professional standards for reliability, file formats, or ruggedness. The Pentax Q10 comes closer with RAW and manual exposure options but is still an enthusiast-level system.

Putting It All Together: Scores and Sample Shots

Before we wrap, here’s a quick step back with industry and real-world performance metrics.

Panasonic FX75 front Panasonic FX75 screen back Pentax Q10 front Pentax Q10 screen back

From sample galleries, the Q10’s images show more vibrant colors, sharper details, and better low-light handling.

The Q10 scores noticeably better in image quality, autofocus, and flexibility, while the FX75 excels in portability and simplicity.

Breaking the scores down by photography type confirms the FX75’s limitations in action, night, and macro shooting but points to its strength in street and travel.

Price-to-Performance: Bang for Your Buck

At the time of release, the Panasonic FX75 was priced around $139, targeting novices or budget-minded users.

The Pentax Q10, nearly 2.5 times that at $350, commands a premium for added control, lens system, and image quality.

Both offer decent value in 2024 if sourced used or refurbished, but the Q10’s features justify the higher price if you crave growth and customization.

Final Verdict: Which Camera Should You Buy?

Choose the Panasonic Lumix FX75 if:

• You want an ultra-compact camera for everyday snapshots, casual travel, or street photography.
• Portability and simplicity trump creative complexity for you.
• You don’t care about RAW files or manual controls.
• Your budget is tight or you’re after a lightweight backup camera.

Opt for the Pentax Q10 if:

• You’re an enthusiast seeking manual exposure controls, RAW support, and creative flexibility.
• You want to explore different lenses without stepping into mirrorless DSLRs.
• Burst shooting, improved autofocus, and better video appeal to your style.
• You don’t mind carrying a slightly larger camera for enhanced performance.
• You plan to invest in photographic skills and equipment beyond point-and-shoot casualness.

Closing Thoughts from My Experience

I’ve carried both cameras along dusty trails, bustling cities, and twilight skies. The FX75 is like a trusty friend you don’t have to fuss with, pulling it out for quick memories. The Pentax Q10 feels like a small but earnest toolkit, rewarding patience and creative experimentation.

Neither claims flagship status, but each defines a corner of the compact camera universe well. Ultimately, your choice depends on whether you prefer effortless snapshots or a richer photographic journey.

Happy shooting, and may your next camera be the one that inspires great images and lasting memories!

Disclosure: I’ve tested and compared thousands of cameras across price ranges and styles over 15+ years, bringing hands-on experience to this review to help you navigate these small sensor contenders with clarity and confidence.