Panasonic ZS15 vs Pentax Q

On this page, we are matching up the Panasonic ZS15 and Pentax Q, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the ZS15 (12MP) and the Q (12MP) is fairly comparable and both cameras provide the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The ZS15 was released 13 months later than the Q making them a generation apart from one another. The two cameras have different body design with the Panasonic ZS15 being a Compact camera and the Pentax Q being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving into a in depth comparison, here is a short summary of how the ZS15 scores versus the Q with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS15 and Pentax Q. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic ZS15 Gallery and Pentax Q Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera regularly, you should consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic ZS15 provides outer dimensions of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") along with a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs) and the Pentax Q has measurements of 98mm x 57mm x 31mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 180 grams (0.40 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic ZS15 and Pentax Q in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Here is a front view physical size comparison of the ZS15 versus the Q.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZS15 and Q is 92 and 93 respectively.

Typically, it is very hard to picture the gap in sensor sizing purely by going through specs. The photograph below might give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZS15 and Q.

All in all, both of the cameras have the same sensor dimensions and the same MP and you should expect comparable quality of files though you would want to consider the release date of the cameras into account. The more modern ZS15 should have a benefit in sensor technology.