Panasonic ZS8 vs Pentax Q-S1

Below is a extensive overview of the Panasonic ZS8 and Pentax Q-S1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the ZS8 (14MP) and the Q-S1 (12MP) is fairly well matched but the ZS8 (1/2.3") and Q-S1 (1/1.7") use different sensor sizing.

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The ZS8 was introduced 4 years earlier than the Q-S1 and that is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic ZS8 being a Compact camera and the Pentax Q-S1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go in to a more detailed comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the ZS8 matches up vs the Q-S1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8 and Pentax Q-S1. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic ZS8 Gallery and Pentax Q-S1 Gallery.

When you are looking to lug around your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and volume. The Panasonic ZS8 comes with exterior dimensions of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") with a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs) and the Pentax Q-S1 has sizing of 105mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 203 grams (0.45 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic ZS8 and Pentax Q-S1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you use during that time. Below is the front view scale comparison of the ZS8 vs the Q-S1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ZS8 and Q-S1 is 92 and 92 respectively.

Typically, it is very hard to picture the difference between sensor measurements purely by reading through a spec sheet. The photograph underneath might provide you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZS8 and Q-S1.

As you can see, the 2 cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The ZS8 having a tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF trickier and the Panasonic ZS8 will give you extra detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will help you crop photos much more aggressively. The older ZS8 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.