Panasonic ZR1 vs Pentax Q-S1

In this write-up, we will be contrasting the Panasonic ZR1 versus Pentax Q-S1, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the ZR1 (12MP) and the Q-S1 (12MP) is relatively well matched but the ZR1 (1/2.3") and Q-S1 (1/1.7") come with totally different sensor sizes.

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The ZR1 was announced 6 years before the Q-S1 and that is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic ZR1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax Q-S1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go through a full comparison, below is a simple view of how the ZR1 matches up vs the Q-S1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1 & Pentax Q-S1. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZR1 Gallery & Pentax Q-S1 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry your camera frequently, you will need to factor its weight and proportions. The Panasonic ZR1 provides outer dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") and a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Pentax Q-S1 has measurements of 105mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 203 grams (0.45 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic ZR1 versus Pentax Q-S1 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are working with during that time. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the ZR1 vs the Q-S1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZR1 and Q-S1 is 94 and 92 respectively.

Sometimes, it's hard to see the contrast between sensor sizing simply by looking at specs. The photograph here should provide you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZR1 and Q-S1.

All in all, the two cameras offer the same exact megapixel count albeit not the same sensor sizing. The ZR1 uses the tinier sensor which should make achieving shallow depth of field more difficult. The older ZR1 is going to be behind in sensor tech.