Panasonic FX78 vs Pentax Q-S1

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Panasonic FX78 and Pentax Q-S1, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the FX78 (12MP) and the Q-S1 (12MP) is pretty similar but the FX78 (1/2.3") and Q-S1 (1/1.7") feature different sensor sizing.

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The FX78 was unveiled 4 years before the Q-S1 and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FX78 being a Compact camera and the Pentax Q-S1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving through a in-depth comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the FX78 scores versus the Q-S1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX78 and Pentax Q-S1. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic FX78 Gallery and Pentax Q-S1 Gallery.

If you're intending to lug around your camera, you'll have to factor its weight and volume. The Panasonic FX78 enjoys outside measurements of 100mm x 55mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") along with a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) and the Pentax Q-S1 has sizing of 105mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 203 grams (0.45 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic FX78 and Pentax Q-S1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are working with at that time. Below is the front view dimension comparison of the FX78 compared to the Q-S1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FX78 and Q-S1 is 95 and 92 respectively.

More often than not, its tough to visualize the difference between sensor measurements just by reviewing specifications. The photograph underneath should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the FX78 and Q-S1.

To sum up, both cameras enjoy the same exact megapixels albeit different sensor measurements. The FX78 features the tinier sensor which is going to make achieving bokeh more challenging. The older FX78 is going to be behind with regard to sensor innovation.