Panasonic GF3 vs Pentax Q-S1

The following is a complete assessment of the Panasonic GF3 and Pentax Q-S1, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the GF3 (12MP) and the Q-S1 (12MP) is very comparable but the GF3 (Four Thirds) and Q-S1 (1/1.7") feature different sensor sizes.

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The GF3 was manufactured 4 years prior to the Q-S1 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go straight into a in depth comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the GF3 grades versus the Q-S1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 and Pentax Q-S1. The entire galleries are provided at Panasonic GF3 Gallery and Pentax Q-S1 Gallery.

For those who are looking to travel with your camera often, you'll have to take into account its weight and volume. The Panasonic GF3 comes with outer measurements of 108mm x 67mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.3") with a weight of 264 grams (0.58 lbs) whilst the Pentax Q-S1 has sizing of 105mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 203 grams (0.45 lbs).

See the Panasonic GF3 and Pentax Q-S1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the GF3 versus the Q-S1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the GF3 and Q-S1 is 90 and 92 respectively.

In many cases, its difficult to picture the contrast in sensor dimensions only by checking out specifications. The pic here will give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the GF3 and Q-S1.

To sum up, the 2 cameras posses the exact same resolution but different sensor dimensions. The GF3 has got the larger sensor which should make getting bokeh easier. The more aged GF3 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.