Panasonic ZS3 vs Pentax Q

Following is a comprehensive analysis of the Panasonic ZS3 vs Pentax Q, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the ZS3 (10MP) and the Q (12MP) is pretty close and both cameras posses the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The ZS3 was brought out 3 years earlier than the Q which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic ZS3 being a Compact camera and the Pentax Q being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going into a complete comparison, here is a concise overview of how the ZS3 grades versus the Q in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 and Pentax Q. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS3 Gallery and Pentax Q Gallery.

When you are going to carry around your camera frequently, you have to take into account its weight and volume. The Panasonic ZS3 offers exterior measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs) while 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).

Check out the Panasonic ZS3 vs Pentax Q in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have chosen at that moment. The following is a front view sizing comparison of the ZS3 against the Q.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the ZS3 and Q is 91 and 93 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be tough to imagine the difference in sensor sizes purely by looking through specifications. The pic below should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS3 and Q.

To sum up, both the cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit different megapixels. You should expect the Pentax Q to result in more detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots way more aggressively. The more aged ZS3 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.