Pentax Q vs Sony NEX-3N

The following is a comprehensive comparison of the Pentax Q vs Sony NEX-3N, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by brands Pentax and Sony. There is a crucial difference among the sensor resolutions of the Q (12MP) and NEX-3N (16MP) and the Q (1/2.3") and NEX-3N (APS-C) offer different sensor size.

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The Q was unveiled 20 months earlier than the NEX-3N which makes them a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a brief summary of how the Q scores against the NEX-3N with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

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

For anyone who is aiming to travel with your camera regularly, you have to factor in its weight and volume. The Pentax Q enjoys outside dimensions of 98mm x 57mm x 31mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") and a weight of 180 grams (0.40 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-3N has sizing of 110mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.4") along with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Check the Pentax Q vs Sony NEX-3N in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you choose at that time. The following is a front view proportions comparison of the Q and the NEX-3N.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the Q and NEX-3N is 93 and 89 respectively.

In many cases, it is difficult to picture the gap in sensor dimensions just by seeing a spec sheet. The picture underneath will help give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the Q and NEX-3N.

Clearly, both of the cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The Q with its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field tougher and the Sony NEX-3N will produce more detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop photographs a good deal more aggressively. The more aged Q will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.