Panasonic SZ8 vs Pentax Q-S1

Here, we are reviewing the Panasonic SZ8 and Pentax Q-S1, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a considerable gap between the image resolutions of the SZ8 (16MP) and Q-S1 (12MP) and the SZ8 (1/2.3") and Q-S1 (1/1.7") boast different sensor size.

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The SZ8 was revealed 7 months prior to the Q-S1 so they are both of a similar age. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic SZ8 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 brief overview of how the SZ8 matches up vs the Q-S1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8 & Pentax Q-S1. The full galleries are available at Panasonic SZ8 Gallery & Pentax Q-S1 Gallery.

When you are aiming to lug around your camera often, you're going to have to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic SZ8 enjoys outer measurements of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Pentax Q-S1 has measurements of 105mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") having a weight of 203 grams (0.45 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic SZ8 and Pentax Q-S1 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are employing at that moment. Following is a front view measurements comparison of the SZ8 vs the Q-S1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SZ8 and Q-S1 is 94 and 92 respectively.

Sometimes, it's tough to visualize the gap between sensor measurements simply by reading technical specs. The graphic underneath will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ8 and Q-S1.

As you have seen, both cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The SZ8 having a tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF harder and the Panasonic SZ8 will offer extra detail because of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop pics way more aggressively. The older SZ8 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.