Panasonic ZS3 vs Pentax Q7

Below is a extensive analysis of the Panasonic ZS3 vs Pentax Q7, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the ZS3 (10MP) and the Q7 (12MP) is relatively close but the ZS3 (1/2.3") and Q7 (1/1.7") boast different sensor sizing.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The ZS3 was launched 5 years before the Q7 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Panasonic ZS3 being a Compact camera and the Pentax Q7 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going into a more detailed comparison, here is a brief summation of how the ZS3 grades against the Q7 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 and Pentax Q7. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS3 Gallery and Pentax Q7 Gallery.

When you are planning to lug around your camera often, you'll have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic ZS3 has physical measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Pentax Q7 has dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs).

Check the Panasonic ZS3 vs Pentax Q7 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are working with at the time. Below is a front view dimensions comparison of the ZS3 and the Q7.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS3 and Q7 is 91 and 92 respectively.

Quite often, it is tough to imagine the difference in sensor measurements just by looking through a spec sheet. The graphic here will help provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the ZS3 and Q7.

As you can see, the two cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The ZS3 due to its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field trickier and the Pentax Q7 will provide you with greater detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The older ZS3 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.