Panasonic SZ3 vs Pentax Q

In this write-up, we are matching up the Panasonic SZ3 and Pentax Q, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There is a sizeable difference between the sensor resolutions of the SZ3 (16MP) and Q (12MP) but they feature the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SZ3 was brought out 19 months after the Q making the cameras a generation away from each other. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic SZ3 being a Compact camera and the Pentax Q being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting through a in-depth comparison, below is a brief summation of how the SZ3 grades versus the Q with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3 and Pentax Q. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic SZ3 Gallery and Pentax Q Gallery.

When you are planning to carry around your camera regularly, you are going to need to consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic SZ3 has outside measurements of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs) and the Pentax Q has sizing of 98mm x 57mm x 31mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 180 grams (0.40 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic SZ3 and Pentax Q in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have chosen at the time. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the SZ3 against the Q.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ3 and Q is 96 and 93 respectively.

Generally, it can be hard to picture the difference between sensor sizes just by reviewing specs. The image underneath will offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ3 and Q.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but different resolution. You should anticipate the Panasonic SZ3 to offer you more detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop pics far more aggressively. The fresher SZ3 should have an advantage in sensor tech.