Panasonic ZS7 vs Pentax Q-S1

Here, we will be evaluating the Panasonic ZS7 and Pentax Q-S1, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the ZS7 (12MP) and the Q-S1 (12MP) is relatively close but the ZS7 (1/2.3") and Q-S1 (1/1.7") provide different sensor sizes.

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

The ZS7 was revealed 4 years before the Q-S1 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic ZS7 being a Compact camera and the Pentax Q-S1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting straight to a complete comparison, here is a simple view of how the ZS7 matches up vs the Q-S1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS7 and Pentax Q-S1. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS7 Gallery and Pentax Q-S1 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry around your camera often, you will need to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS7 features outer measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 218 grams (0.48 lbs) while the Pentax Q-S1 has specifications of 105mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") along with a weight of 203 grams (0.45 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic ZS7 and Pentax Q-S1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are using at that moment. Following is a front view sizing comparison of the ZS7 versus the Q-S1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the ZS7 and Q-S1 is 91 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to picture the contrast in sensor sizes only by researching a spec sheet. The picture here will help give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the ZS7 and Q-S1.

As you can see, both of these cameras come with the identical resolution albeit different sensor sizes. The ZS7 contains the smaller sensor which should make getting shallower DOF tougher. The more aged ZS7 will be behind with regard to sensor technology.