Panasonic ZR3 vs Pentax Q7

Here is a thorough assessment of the Panasonic ZR3 and Pentax Q7, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the ZR3 (14MP) and the Q7 (12MP) is fairly comparable but the ZR3 (1/2.3") and Q7 (1/1.7") possess totally different sensor measurements.

Body cameras now worn by bakery staff to deter stealing

The ZR3 was released 4 years earlier than the Q7 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic ZR3 being a Compact camera and the Pentax Q7 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go in to a more detailed comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the ZR3 matches up vs the Q7 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR3 & Pentax Q7. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic ZR3 Gallery & Pentax Q7 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry your camera frequently, you're going to have to take into account its weight and size. The Panasonic ZR3 has got external dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") and a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Pentax Q7 has specifications of 102mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.3") having a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic ZR3 and Pentax Q7 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you select at the time. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the ZR3 compared to the Q7.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the ZR3 and Q7 is 94 and 92 respectively.

Often, it can be hard to see the difference in sensor sizing just by going through specifications. The graphic below should offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZR3 and Q7.

To sum up, the 2 cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The ZR3 due to its smaller sensor will make shooting bokeh harder and the Panasonic ZR3 will provide more detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop images somewhat more aggressively. The older ZR3 will be disadvantaged in sensor technology.