Pentax Q10 vs Sony NEX-C3

Following is a in-depth assessment of the Pentax Q10 and Sony NEX-C3, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by companies Pentax and Sony. There is a sizeable difference among the image resolutions of the Q10 (12MP) and NEX-C3 (16MP) and the Q10 (1/2.3") and NEX-C3 (APS-C) boast totally different sensor sizes.

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The Q10 was introduced 13 months after the NEX-C3 making them a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting straight to a in depth comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the Q10 matches up against the NEX-C3 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax Q10 and Sony Alpha NEX-C3. The whole galleries are viewable at Pentax Q10 Gallery and Sony NEX-C3 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry around your camera often, you'll have to factor its weight and volume. The Pentax Q10 has physical measurements of 102mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.3") with a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs) while the Sony NEX-C3 has sizing of 110mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 225 grams (0.50 lbs).

Examine the Pentax Q10 and Sony NEX-C3 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are employing at the time. Below is a front view overall size comparison of the Q10 compared to the NEX-C3.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the Q10 and NEX-C3 is 92 and 91 respectively.

In many cases, it's difficult to visualise the contrast in sensor sizes merely by viewing specs. The image below will give you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the Q10 and NEX-C3.

All in all, both the cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The Q10 with its smaller sensor will make getting shallow depth of field more challenging and the Sony NEX-C3 will provide you with greater detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also help you crop pics more aggressively. The more modern Q10 is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.