Pentax Q10 vs Sony NEX-5

Below, we are comparing the Pentax Q10 versus Sony NEX-5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Pentax and Sony. The image resolution of the Q10 (12MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is very similar but the Q10 (1/2.3") and NEX-5 (APS-C) use totally different sensor sizing.

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The Q10 was announced 2 years later than the NEX-5 and that is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving through a more detailed comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the Q10 grades versus the NEX-5 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax Q10 & Sony Alpha NEX-5. The whole galleries are viewable at Pentax Q10 Gallery & Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to lug around your camera regularly, you should factor its weight and size. The Pentax Q10 provides physical dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs) while the Sony NEX-5 has specifications of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") along with a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Take a look at the Pentax Q10 versus Sony NEX-5 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you use at the time. Underneath is the front view sizing comparison of the Q10 against the NEX-5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the Q10 and NEX-5 is 92 and 89 respectively.

In many cases, it is very hard to visualise the contrast between sensor measurements only by reviewing specs. The visual underneath should provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the Q10 and NEX-5.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras have got different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The Q10 having a tinier sensor will make achieving shallow DOF trickier and the Sony NEX-5 will deliver more detail with its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop photos much more aggressively. The fresher Q10 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.