Pentax K-1 vs Pentax Q10

Following is a thorough review of the Pentax K-1 and Pentax Q10, one is a Advanced DSLR and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both of them are sold by Pentax. There exists a sizeable gap between the resolutions of the K-1 (36MP) and Q10 (12MP) and the K-1 (Full frame) and Q10 (1/2.3") provide totally different sensor size.

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The K-1 was manufactured 3 years after the Q10 which is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Pentax K-1 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Pentax Q10 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving into a detailed comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the K-1 matches up versus the Q10 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax K-1 and Pentax Q10. The entire galleries are available at Pentax K-1 Gallery and Pentax Q10 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry around your camera regularly, you will have to factor in its weight and size. The Pentax K-1 comes with outer dimensions of 137mm x 110mm x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") accompanied by a weight of 1010 grams (2.23 lbs) and the Pentax Q10 has specifications of 102mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.3") along with a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs).

Take a look at the Pentax K-1 and Pentax Q10 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are working with at that time. Below is a front view sizing comparison of the K-1 compared to the Q10.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the K-1 and Q10 is 55 and 92 respectively.

More often than not, its tough to envision the difference between sensor sizes just by going over specifications. The picture below might give you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the K-1 and Q10.

To sum up, both cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The K-1 due to its bigger sensor will make shooting bokeh less difficult and the Pentax K-1 will deliver greater detail due to its extra 24 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots way more aggressively. The fresher K-1 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.