Pentax K-500 vs Pentax Q

Its time to take a closer look at the Pentax K-500 vs Pentax Q, one being a Entry-Level DSLR and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both of them are sold by Pentax. There exists a sizeable gap among the sensor resolutions of the K-500 (16MP) and Q (12MP) and the K-500 (APS-C) and Q (1/2.3") have totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The K-500 was launched 2 years later than the Q and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Pentax K-500 being a Compact SLR camera and the Pentax Q being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the K-500 grades against the Q for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax K-500 and Pentax Q. The complete galleries are available at Pentax K-500 Gallery and Pentax Q Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera frequently, you'll have to factor its weight and measurements. The Pentax K-500 enjoys exterior measurements of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") along with a weight of 646 grams (1.42 lbs) and the Pentax Q has proportions of 98mm x 57mm x 31mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") along with a weight of 180 grams (0.40 lbs).

Examine the Pentax K-500 vs Pentax Q in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have at that moment. Here is a front view physical size comparison of the K-500 against the Q.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the K-500 and Q is 64 and 93 respectively.

More often than not, its tough to see the contrast in sensor sizing only by seeing specifications. The visual below should provide you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the K-500 and Q.

Plainly, both of those cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The K-500 due to its bigger sensor will make shooting bokeh simpler and the Pentax K-500 will produce greater detail utilizing its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop photographs way more aggressively. The newer K-500 is going to have an edge in sensor tech.