Pentax P80 vs Pentax Q-S1

Let's look more closely at the Pentax P80 versus Pentax Q-S1, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both are built by Pentax. The sensor resolution of the P80 (12MP) and the Q-S1 (12MP) is very well matched but the P80 (1/2.3") and Q-S1 (1/1.7") have different sensor sizes.

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The P80 was introduced 6 years earlier than the Q-S1 which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Pentax P80 being a Compact camera and the Pentax Q-S1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the P80 grades against the Q-S1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax Optio P80 and Pentax Q-S1. The whole galleries are viewable at Pentax P80 Gallery and Pentax Q-S1 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry around your camera, you will have to take into account its weight and volume. The Pentax P80 offers external measurements of 102mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.0") having a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) while the Pentax Q-S1 has sizing of 105mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") having a weight of 203 grams (0.45 lbs).

Check out the Pentax P80 versus Pentax Q-S1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose at the time. Here is a front view physical size comparison of the P80 against the Q-S1.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the P80 and Q-S1 is 95 and 92 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's hard to imagine the difference between sensor sizes merely by looking at a spec sheet. The image below may give you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the P80 and Q-S1.

Clearly, both cameras provide the same resolution but different sensor sizes. The P80 provides the tinier sensor which should make obtaining shallow DOF trickier. The more aged P80 is going to be behind in sensor technology.