Panasonic GM1 vs Pentax Q-S1

Here, we are evaluating the Panasonic GM1 and Pentax Q-S1, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by companies Panasonic and Pentax. There is a noticeable difference among the image resolutions of the GM1 (16MP) and Q-S1 (12MP) and the GM1 (Four Thirds) and Q-S1 (1/1.7") boast totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The GM1 was unveiled 7 months before the Q-S1 which means that they are both of a similar age. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go into a full comparison, here is a brief view of how the GM1 scores against the Q-S1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1 & Pentax Q-S1. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic GM1 Gallery & Pentax Q-S1 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to lug around your camera regularly, you will have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GM1 enjoys outer measurements of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") and a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs) and the Pentax Q-S1 has dimensions of 105mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") along with a weight of 203 grams (0.45 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic GM1 and Pentax Q-S1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you choose at that moment. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the GM1 versus the Q-S1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the GM1 and Q-S1 is 93 and 92 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is hard to see the contrast in sensor measurements purely by looking through a spec sheet. The photograph here might offer you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the GM1 and Q-S1.

As you can see, each of the cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The GM1 having a larger sensor will make achieving bokeh simpler and the Panasonic GM1 will render greater detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The older GM1 will be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.