Panasonic G3 vs Pentax Q-S1

In this article, we will be contrasting the Panasonic G3 vs Pentax Q-S1, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There is a considerable difference among the image resolutions of the G3 (16MP) and Q-S1 (12MP) and the G3 (Four Thirds) and Q-S1 (1/1.7") use different sensor sizing.

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The G3 was released 4 years earlier than the Q-S1 and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic G3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax Q-S1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going through a detailed comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the G3 matches up vs the Q-S1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 & Pentax Q-S1. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic G3 Gallery & Pentax Q-S1 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry your camera, you need to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic G3 has exterior measurements of 115mm x 84mm x 47mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 1.9") with a weight of 336 grams (0.74 lbs) while the Pentax Q-S1 has measurements of 105mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 203 grams (0.45 lbs).

See the Panasonic G3 vs Pentax Q-S1 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have during that time. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the G3 against the Q-S1.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the G3 and Q-S1 is 83 and 92 respectively.

Usually, it is difficult to imagine the contrast in sensor sizing only by researching a spec sheet. The photograph below may give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the G3 and Q-S1.

As you can see, both cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The G3 because of its bigger sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field simpler and the Panasonic G3 will result in extra detail as a result of its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also help you crop pictures a little more aggressively. The older G3 will be behind in sensor innovation.