Panasonic GH3 vs Pentax Q-S1

Below, we will be contrasting the Panasonic GH3 versus Pentax Q-S1, former being a Advanced Mirrorless while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There is a large difference between the image resolutions of the GH3 (16MP) and Q-S1 (12MP) and the GH3 (Four Thirds) and Q-S1 (1/1.7") possess totally different sensor size.

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The GH3 was introduced 22 months prior to the Q-S1 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. The two cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic GH3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax Q-S1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting in to a more detailed comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the GH3 scores vs the Q-S1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3 & Pentax Q-S1. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic GH3 Gallery & Pentax Q-S1 Gallery.

When you are going to lug around your camera often, you will have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GH3 features external measurements of 133mm x 93mm x 82mm (5.2" x 3.7" x 3.2") and a weight of 550 grams (1.21 lbs) whilst the Pentax Q-S1 has dimensions of 105mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 203 grams (0.45 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GH3 versus Pentax Q-S1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have attached during that time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the GH3 versus the Q-S1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the GH3 and Q-S1 is 66 and 92 respectively.

In many cases, its tough to visualise the difference between sensor measurements merely by reviewing specs. The photograph below should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the GH3 and Q-S1.

All in all, both cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The GH3 having a bigger sensor will make getting shallow DOF less difficult and the Panasonic GH3 will deliver extra detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The older GH3 is going to be behind in sensor innovation.