Panasonic LS5 vs Pentax Q-S1

Its time to look more closely at the Panasonic LS5 and Pentax Q-S1, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the LS5 (14MP) and the Q-S1 (12MP) is fairly similar but the LS5 (1/2.3") and Q-S1 (1/1.7") boast totally different sensor size.

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The LS5 was unveiled 4 years before the Q-S1 which is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Panasonic LS5 being a Compact camera and the Pentax Q-S1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving right into a full comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the LS5 grades against the Q-S1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS5 and Pentax Q-S1. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic LS5 Gallery and Pentax Q-S1 Gallery.

When you are aiming to travel with your camera frequently, you will want to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic LS5 enjoys physical dimensions of 97mm x 62mm x 27mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs) and the Pentax Q-S1 has dimensions of 105mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") having a weight of 203 grams (0.45 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic LS5 and Pentax Q-S1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you select during that time. Below is a front view overall size comparison of the LS5 and the Q-S1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the LS5 and Q-S1 is 94 and 92 respectively.

Normally, its tough to envision the contrast between sensor dimensions only by reviewing specs. The picture here should give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the LS5 and Q-S1.

All in all, both of those cameras have different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The LS5 having a tinier sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field more difficult and the Panasonic LS5 will offer you more detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will help you crop photos a bit more aggressively. The more aged LS5 is going to be behind in sensor tech.