Panasonic LZ30 vs Pentax Q-S1

Here is a extensive analysis of the Panasonic LZ30 versus Pentax Q-S1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There is a big difference among the resolutions of the LZ30 (16MP) and Q-S1 (12MP) and the LZ30 (1/2.3") and Q-S1 (1/1.7") enjoy different sensor dimensions.

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The LZ30 was introduced 19 months earlier than the Q-S1 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic LZ30 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax Q-S1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving through a complete comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the LZ30 matches up against the Q-S1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ30 and Pentax Q-S1. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic LZ30 Gallery and Pentax Q-S1 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry your camera regularly, you have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic LZ30 offers external measurements of 124mm x 84mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 3.6") and a weight of 552 grams (1.22 lbs) while the Pentax Q-S1 has proportions of 105mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") with a weight of 203 grams (0.45 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic LZ30 versus Pentax Q-S1 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have attached during that time. Below is the front view over all size comparison of the LZ30 compared to the Q-S1.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the LZ30 and Q-S1 is 66 and 92 respectively.

Usually, it is very tough to visualize the contrast in sensor sizing simply by going through technical specs. The graphic here might give you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the LZ30 and Q-S1.

As you can tell, both cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The LZ30 with its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF trickier and the Panasonic LZ30 will produce greater detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop pictures far more aggressively. The older LZ30 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.