Pentax Q-S1 vs Sony NEX-3N

On this page, we will be comparing the Pentax Q-S1 versus Sony NEX-3N, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by companies Pentax and Sony. There exists a considerable gap between the sensor resolutions of the Q-S1 (12MP) and NEX-3N (16MP) and the Q-S1 (1/1.7") and NEX-3N (APS-C) provide different sensor dimensions.

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The Q-S1 was unveiled 18 months after the NEX-3N which makes them a generation away from one another. Both cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the Q-S1 grades vs the NEX-3N with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax Q-S1 & Sony Alpha NEX-3N. The full galleries are available at Pentax Q-S1 Gallery & Sony NEX-3N Gallery.

If you are looking to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to think about its weight and proportions. The Pentax Q-S1 features outer dimensions of 105mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 203 grams (0.45 lbs) while the Sony NEX-3N has measurements of 110mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.4") along with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Analyze the Pentax Q-S1 versus Sony NEX-3N in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you select at the time. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the Q-S1 vs the NEX-3N.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the Q-S1 and NEX-3N is 92 and 89 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to visualize the difference between sensor sizes purely by reading through a spec sheet. The image below might provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the Q-S1 and NEX-3N.

As you can see, both of those cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The Q-S1 having a tinier sensor is going to make shooting bokeh harder and the Sony NEX-3N will give you greater detail having an extra 4MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots more aggressively. The newer Q-S1 provides an edge with regard to sensor innovation.