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Pentax Q Review | 108 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£250
  • Avg. price in US: ~$250
  • Sensor size: 1/2.3"
  • Lens mount: Pentax Q
  • Main camera pixel size: 1.55 µm
  • Weight: 200 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 230 shots

Pentax Q review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

4.8

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the camera's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best cameras on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.5

Technical Score

10.0%

7.8

User score

Poor
4.5

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

4.4

Sensor & Image

25.0%

5.2

Photo Features

18.0%

3.2

Video & Audio

14.0%

6.4

Display & Design

8.0%

3.6

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.6

Connectivity & Storage

Poor
7.8

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.9

User reviews

30.0%

5.3

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(10)
amazon
4.5
(9)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(10)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Very good
  • 4.0
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    4.9

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    2.0

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    1.0

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 6.2
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    9.7

    Weight

    30.0%

    2.0

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 7.2
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.2

    Price

    20.0%

    9.7

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    2.0

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    1.0

    Touchscreen

  • 5.8
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    4.9

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    1.8

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

  • 8.1
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.7

    Weight

    25.0%

    9.4

    Thickness

    20.0%

    5.9

    AF low-light sensitivity

    15.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

  • 4.1
    Portraits

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    25.0%

    1.8

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    4.9

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 5.6
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.7

    Weight

    25.0%

    2.0

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    2.8

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Pentax Q is a ultra-compact mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera featuring a 12.4-megapixel 1/2.3-inch back-illuminated CMOS sensor and a magnesium alloy body weighing just 180g. Its main characteristics include built-in sensor-shift image stabilization, 1080p30 Full HD video recording, and a unique customizable front Quick Dial for rapid filter selection. Key pros are its exceptional build quality, highly portable 'pocketable' size, and a massive 5.5x crop factor that allows for ultra-tiny telephoto lenses. However, its small sensor results in significant noise at ISOs above 800, a lack of shallow depth-of-field control, and its 3.0-inch 460k-dot LCD screen is notoriously difficult to view in bright sunlight.

Technical Specifications of Pentax Q

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

4.4

Sensor & Image

25.0%

5.2

Photo Features

18.0%

3.2

Video & Audio

14.0%

6.4

Display & Design

8.0%

3.6

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.6

Connectivity & Storage

4.5
Pentax Q has a technical score of 4.48 points, which is lower than 71.5% of cameras.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.9

User reviews

30.0%

5.3

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(10)
amazon
4.5
(9)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(10)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

7.8
Pentax Q has a user score of 7.82 points, which is lower than 88.5% of cameras.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
5.3
Pentax Q has a popularity of 5.3 points, which is higher than 57.7% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the camera's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.8

Overall score

40.0%

9.2

Price

6.1
Pentax Q has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.1 points, which is lower than 58.1% of products in this category.
Sensor size
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

1/2.3"
Pentax Q uses a sensor classified as 1/2.3"; it is smaller than the sensor in 60.5% of cameras and the same size as the sensor in 38.1% of cameras.
Main camera megapixels
What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

12.4 MP
Pentax Q has a main camera resolution of 12.4 MP, which is lower than that of 82.8% of cameras and equal to that of 0.9% of cameras.
Main camera pixel size
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

1.55 µm
Pentax Q has a main camera pixel size of 1.55 µm which is smaller than in 60.9% of cameras and equal to the size in 1.2% of cameras.
Base ISO
What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.
When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

125
Pentax Q has a base ISO of 125 which is higher than that of 72.4% of cameras and equal to that of 8.1% of cameras.
Max ISO
What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

6,400
Pentax Q reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 6,400, which is higher than that of 37.3% of cameras and equal to that of 16.2% of cameras.
Show more
Lens mount
What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.
When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

Pentax Q
Built-in focus motor
What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.
When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

no
Pentax Q does not have a built-in focus motor. 11% of cameras have a built-in focus motor.
N. of focus points
What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

25
Pentax Q has 25 focus points, more than the number offered by 50.4% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 4.6% of cameras.
Phase-detection autofocus (photos)
What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

no
Pentax Q does not support phase-detection autofocus for photos. 37.5% of cameras support phase-detection autofocus for photos.
AF tracking
What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.
When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Pentax Q supports AF tracking. This feature is available on 88% of cameras.
Show more
Max video resolution
What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

1920 px
Pentax Q supports 1920 px video recording which is higher quality than that of 28.7% of cameras and equal to that of 47.1% of cameras.
Video bitrate
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

13 Mbps
Pentax Q has a video bitrate of 13 Mbps which is lower than that of 88.4% of cameras and equal to that of 1% of cameras.
Video bit depth
What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.
When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

8 bit
Pentax Q supports video at 8 bit, a bit depth higher than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 80.6% of cameras.
Video chroma subsampling
What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.
When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

4:2:0
Pentax Q supports 4:2:0 video chroma subsampling which is more advanced than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 69.9% of cameras.
Video codecs
What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.
When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

H.264
Show more
Type
What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.
When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

mirrorless
Weight
What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

200 g
Pentax Q weighs 200 g which is lighter than 79.6% of cameras and equal to the weight of 0.3% of cameras.
Width
What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

98 mm
Pentax Q has a width of 98 mm which is narrower than 86.5% of cameras and equal to that of 0.6% of cameras.
Height
What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

57.5 mm
Pentax Q has a height of 57.5 mm which is shorter than 90.2% of cameras and equal to that of 0.2% of cameras.
Thickness
What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

31 mm
Pentax Q has a thickness of 31 mm which is thinner than 75.3% of cameras.
Show more
Battery life (CIPA)
What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

230 shots
Pentax Q has a CIPA-rated battery life of 230 shots, which is shorter than that of 79.1% of cameras and equal to that of 3% of cameras.
Battery capacity
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

1,000 mAh
Pentax Q has a battery capacity of 1,000 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 69.5% of cameras and equal to those in 2.4% of cameras.
Removable battery
What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.
When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

Importance: LOW

yes
Pentax Q has a removable battery, and 98.7% of cameras include one.
USB Power Delivery (PD)
What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.
When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

no
Pentax Q does not support USB Power Delivery. 10.1% of cameras support USB Power Delivery.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.
When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

no
Pentax Q does not support Wi-Fi. 47.9% of cameras include this feature.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.
When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.
When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

no
Pentax Q does not have Bluetooth. 22.7% of cameras support Bluetooth.
Bluetooth version
What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.
When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB Type-C
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

no
Pentax Q does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
Show more

Pentax Q vs the average camera

  • In-body stabilization
    Pentax Q supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
    What it is: A stabilization system that physically moves the image sensor to reduce shake during handheld shooting.
    When it matters: When you often shoot handheld and want sharper results at slower shutter speeds without relying only on lens stabilization.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Pentax Q supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
  • Uses a BSI sensor
    Pentax Q uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
    What it is: Indicates the use of a Back-Side Illuminated sensor, which arranges the wiring behind the light-receiving surface to improve low-light sensitivity.
    When it matters: When you take photos in dim environments and need better light sensitivity.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax Q uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
  • Sensor cleaning system
    Pentax Q includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
    Ultrasonic vibration cleaning.
    What it is: A built-in mechanism designed to remove or reduce dust particles from the image sensor surface.
    When it matters: When you change lenses often and want to reduce the chance of dust spots appearing on your images.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax Q includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
  • 49.4% lighter
    Pentax Q is lighter than the average camera (200 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
    What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
    When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: 500 g or less

    Pentax Q is lighter than the average camera (200 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.200 g vs 395 g
  • Built-in timelapse
    Pentax Q includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.
    What it is: A mode that captures frames at set intervals so long events can be played back as accelerated video.
    When it matters: When you want to show long processes like sunsets, clouds, or city movement in a short finished clip.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax Q includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.
  • 21.9 mm narrower
    Pentax Q is narrower than the average camera (98 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
    What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
    When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax Q is narrower than the average camera (98 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.98 mm vs 119.9 mm
  • 16.4 mm shorter body
    Pentax Q is shorter than the average camera (57.5 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
    What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
    When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax Q is shorter than the average camera (57.5 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.57.5 mm vs 73.9 mm
  • 15 mm thinner
    Pentax Q is thinner than the average camera (31 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
    What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
    When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax Q is thinner than the average camera (31 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.31 mm vs 46 mm
  • 49.4% lighter
    Pentax Q is lighter than the average camera (200 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • 21.9 mm narrower
    Pentax Q is narrower than the average camera (98 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
  • 16.4 mm shorter body
    Pentax Q is shorter than the average camera (57.5 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
  • 15 mm thinner
    Pentax Q is thinner than the average camera (31 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
  • Uses a BSI sensor
    Pentax Q uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
  • Sensor cleaning system
    Pentax Q includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
  • In-body stabilization
    Pentax Q supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
  • Built-in timelapse
    Pentax Q includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.

Total
Overall
Display & Design
Sensor & Image
Photo Features
Video & Audio
  • Smaller sensor
    Pentax Q has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
  • 3.8 MP lower resolution on the main camera
    Pentax Q has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (12.4 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
  • Lower RAW bit depth
    Pentax Q supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
  • 26 points lower DxOMark sensor score
    Pentax Q has a lower DxOMark sensor score than the average camera (47 points vs 73 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sensor score of 73 points.
  • Lower DxOMark portrait score
    Pentax Q has a lower DxOMark portrait score than the average camera (20.2 vs 23.0). The average camera scores 23.0.
  • 1.79 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Pentax Q has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.6 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • 653 points lower DxOMark Sports score
    Pentax Q has a lower DxOMark sports score than the average camera (189 points vs 842 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sports score of 842 points.
  • Lower DxOMark landscape score
    Pentax Q has a lower DxOMark landscape score than the average camera (11.1 vs 12.4). The average camera scores 12.4.
  • 2 older
    Pentax Q is older than the average camera (2011 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
    June 2011
  • Worse low-light autofocus
    Pentax Q has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (1 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
  • 0.7 fps slower mechanical burst
    Pentax Q has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
  • No continuous video AF
    Pentax Q does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
  • 1 fewer microphones
    Pentax Q has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
  • 56.7% lower video bitrate
    Pentax Q has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (13 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
  • 100 shots shorter battery life
    Pentax Q has shorter battery life than the average camera (230 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
  • 120 mAh smaller battery capacity
    Pentax Q has a lower battery capacity than the average camera (1,000 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.
  • Older HDMI version
    Pentax Q uses HDMI 1.3, while the average camera uses HDMI 1.4.
    reported as 1.3a
  • Smaller sensor
    Pentax Q has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
    What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
    When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: Full frame or larger

    Pentax Q has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).1/2.3" vs APS-C
  • Worse low-light autofocus
    Pentax Q has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (1 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
    What it is: The lowest light level at which the autofocus system is rated to work reliably.
    When it matters: When you shoot in dim environments and need autofocus that still locks confidently after dark.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Pentax Q has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (1 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.1 vs -4
  • 3.8 MP lower resolution on the main camera
    Pentax Q has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (12.4 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
    What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
    When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 20 MP

    Pentax Q has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (12.4 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.12.4 MP vs 16.2 MP
  • No continuous video AF
    Pentax Q does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
    What it is: The ability of the camera to keep adjusting focus automatically while video recording is in progress.
    When it matters: When you film while subjects or camera distance keep changing and manual refocusing is impractical.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax Q does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
  • Lower RAW bit depth
    Pentax Q supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
    What it is: The number of bits used to encode color and tonal information in RAW files captured by the camera.
    When it matters: When you heavily edit RAW photos and want more tonal information for aggressive adjustments.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 14-bit

    Pentax Q supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.12-bit vs 14-bit
  • 26 points lower DxOMark sensor score
    Pentax Q has a lower DxOMark sensor score than the average camera (47 points vs 73 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sensor score of 73 points.
    What it is: The overall DxOMark sensor rating, summarizing measured image quality performance in lab testing.
    When it matters: When you want a third-party benchmark to compare overall sensor image quality across different cameras.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax Q has a lower DxOMark sensor score than the average camera (47 points vs 73 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sensor score of 73 points.47 points vs 73 points
  • Lower DxOMark portrait score
    Pentax Q has a lower DxOMark portrait score than the average camera (20.2 vs 23.0). The average camera scores 23.0.
    What it is: The DxOMark portrait score, representing measured color depth performance of the sensor.
    When it matters: When accurate color depth and smooth tonal transitions matter for portraits or subtle color work.

    Importance: LOW

    Pentax Q has a lower DxOMark portrait score than the average camera (20.2 vs 23.0). The average camera scores 23.0.20.2 vs 23.0
  • 1.79 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Pentax Q has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.6 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
    What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
    When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 3.5 µm

    Pentax Q has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.6 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.1.55 µm vs 3.34 µm
Total
Overall
Sensor & Image
Photo Features
Video & Audio
Battery & Power
Connectivity & Storage

Graphic comparison of Pentax Q and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
10 Reviews
amazon
4.5
9 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
10 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Pentax Q?

  • World's smallest interchangeable lens camera system, offering extreme portability
  • Excellent build quality with a solid magnesium alloy chassis that feels 'built like a tank'
  • Abundant physical controls, including a unique front dial for quick access to filters and settings
  • Impressive image quality for its sensor size, especially at lower ISO levels
  • Built-in sensor-shift image stabilization
  • Intuitive menu system similar to Pentax DSLRs
  • Near-silent leaf shutter in the kit lenses

What customers dislike about Pentax Q?

  • Small 1/2.3-inch sensor limits depth-of-field control and low-light performance
  • Initial launch price was considered very high compared to competitors with larger sensors
  • Limited battery life, often requiring a second battery for a full day of shooting
  • LCD screen is reflective and difficult to see in bright sunlight
  • Autofocus can be sluggish and struggle in low-light conditions
  • Small physical buttons can be difficult to use for individuals with larger fingers
  • Lack of a built-in viewfinder

Expert reviews

D
dpreview.com
23/06/2011
Pentax Q Hands-on Preview - DPReview

The DPReview review of the Pentax Q describes the camera as an exceptionally small, well-built, and engineered mirrorless system featuring a sturdy magnesium-alloy chassis, intuitive menus, and a customizable front Quick Dial. Its primary strengths include true pocketability with its specialized lens lineup and a robust build quality. However, the camera is limited by its tiny...Read more

S
stevehuffphoto.com
27/09/2011
The Pentax Q Digital Camera Review – A pocket full of pixels!

The Pentax Q is an interchangeable-lens digital camera distinguished by its pocket-sized, magnesium alloy body and exceptionally intuitive, enthusiast-focused menu layout and mechanical dials. Equipped with a small 12.4-megapixel backlit 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, it operates alongside a virtually silent leaf-shutter kit lens (a sharp 47mm equivalent f/1.9 prime) and features...Read more

A
amateurphotographer.com
29/10/2011
Pentax Q review - Amateur Photographer

The Amateur Photographer review highlights the Pentax Q as an ultra-compact, well-built mirrorless camera with a robust magnesium chassis and a unique front quick-dial for creative filters. It boasts extreme portability, being roughly half the size of premium compacts, and features a tactile design, though its lightweight "toy" lenses lack high-quality glass. However, the camera's...Read more

E
ephotozine.com
16/09/2011
Pentax Q Compact System Camera Review - ePHOTOzine

The ePHOTOzine review highlights the Pentax Q as an innovative, ultra-pocketable mirrorless system featuring a premium magnesium alloy body, in-camera shake reduction, and a 12.4-megapixel sensor that delivers good, crisp image quality at base ISO. Key pros include its status as the world's smallest interchangeable lens system, useful customizable controls, and a clever pop-up...Read more

P
pentaxforums.com
18/03/2017
Pentax Q - Pentax Camera Reviews and Specifications

The Pentax Q is lauded as a highly innovative, exceptionally small, and well-constructed magnesium-alloy interchangeable lens camera, praised for its premium design and 12-bit DNG RAW support. Key pros include excellent ergonomics with a front Quick Select Dial, built-in sensor-shift Shake Reduction, vibrant colors up to ISO 800, and the ability to adapt DSLR lenses to achieve...Read more

D
dpreview.com
23/06/2011
Pentax Q Hands-on Preview - DPReview

The DPReview analysis of the Pentax Q highlights its extensive firmware, sharing advanced creative tools, noise reduction, and HDR capabilities with high-end Pentax DSLRs, allowing for detailed JPEG customization. However, the review notes that while the camera boasts a premium, retro-styled front, the back panel appears generic, and the system is not truly pocketable due to...Read more

S
stevehuffphoto.com
27/09/2011
The Pentax Q Digital Camera Review – A pocket full of pixels!

The Pentax Q is a compact, mirrorless interchangeable lens camera featuring a durable magnesium alloy body, an intuitive physical control layout, and a small 12.4-megapixel backlit CMOS sensor. Reviewer Steve Huff praises its exceptional, solid design, easy-to-use menu systems, and highly customizable Quick Dial, which make it a deeply engaging and fun camera to use. The camera...Read more

E
expertreviews.co.uk
21/09/2011
Pentax Q review - Expert Reviews

Overview and Strengths The Pentax Q is an incredibly tiny, retro-styled compact system camera built with a magnesium alloy body and a surprisingly small 1/2.3-inch back-illuminated CMOS sensor. Despite its miniature sensor, the camera delivers remarkably crisp, smooth, and detailed images in bright outdoor settings, nearly matching the output of large-sensor models. Its f/1.9 kit...Read more

T
t3.com
18/10/2011
Pentax Q review - T3

Pentax Q Review Summary The Pentax Q is a mirrorless compact system camera praised for offering DSLR-like functionality and manual control options in a pocket-sized body. Its main advantages include a rugged but highly portable build, an extensive feature set, and excellent image and video quality. Equipped with a 12.4-megapixel CMOS sensor and a fast f/1.9 prime lens, the camera...Read more

T
techradar.com
08/11/2011
Pentax Q review - TechRadar

Pentax Q Review Summary The Pentax Q is highlighted as an exceptionally small, pocket-sized mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera that balances consumer-friendly automation with advanced user control. Built with a tiny 12MP 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, it mimics the sensor size of standard point-and-shoot compacts while packing full manual exposure modes (P/A/S/M) and Adobe DNG RAW...Read more

F
fstoppers.com
17/10/2012
Pentax Q Mirrorless Camera Review - Fstoppers

The Fstoppers review outlines the Pentax Q as an exceptionally compact, interchangeable-lens camera designed for ultimate portability and flexible documentary or street photography. On the positive side, its tiny, unassuming size allows photographers to stay invisible while shooting, and its durable magnesium alloy body efficiently utilizes space. It includes smart hardware choices...Read more

C
cameraderie.org
14/08/2012
The Pentax Q - a real World user review - Cameraderie

The Pentax Q is described as a highly portable, enjoyable mirrorless system that inspires creativity, particularly through its intuitive, functional Quick Select Dial for cycling through artistic color profiles like Reversal Film. While praised for its engaging user experience and unique, compact form factor, the user notes limitations including a short 3-4 hour battery life,...Read more

K
keithwee.com
15/06/2019
Mini review of the Pentax Q | The mini wonder – KeithWee

In this review, Keith Wee explores the Pentax Q, a highly unique 12-megapixel interchangeable lens camera from 2011 that values creative ingenuity and fun over high-end technical specs. The main pros highlighted are its incredibly tiny, well-thought-out design—which is smaller in footprint than an Apple Mouse when paired with the 01 Prime kit lens—and its solid magnesium alloy build...Read more

D
digitalkamera.de
22/11/2011
Pentax Q Review - Digitalkamera.de

The Digitalkamera.de review highlights that the Pentax Q features an exceptionally high-quality, creak-free magnesium alloy body, despite its ultra-compact, toy-like appearance. It praises the inclusion of an in-body sensor-shift image stabilization system, a functional pop-up flash, and a well-designed body that separates the battery and memory card compartments. Conversely, the...Read more

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P
pcwelt.de
27/12/2011
Pentax Q review - PC-WELT

The primary advantages highlighted in the review include exemplary noise control even at higher ISO sensitivities, a quick shutter release response, and an effective sensor-shift mechanical image stabilization system that functions during video recording. On the downside, the camera suffers from extreme lens distortion at wide angles, a 10% drop in resolution performance when zoomed...Read more

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C
chip.de
02/04/2012
Pentax Q (Mirrorless Camera under 1,000 Euros) Review - CHIP

The Pentax Q is an exceptionally small, pocket-sized mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera (DSLM) that weighs only 200 grams and measures 98 x 58 x 31 millimetres. Despite its toy-like appearance, it offers a remarkably premium build quality and high-end physical controls, featuring numerous customisable buttons and dials, an innovative popup flash that swings high above the...Read more

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S
spiegel.de
21/09/2011
Pentax Q Mirrorless Camera: Doll-Sized Camera with Interchangeable Lenses - SPIEGEL

The Pentax Q is an exceptionally small, retro-styled mirrorless system camera that stands out for its tiny footprint and physical controls. Its primary pros include an elegant, high-quality chassis equipped with a multitude of dedicated buttons and dials—such as a front dial for filters and secondary wheels for manual exposure control—making it highly intuitive for experienced...Read more

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A
arnoldstark.de
02/11/2011
Pentax Q Review - Arnold Stark", "Pentax Q Field Test - Arnold Stark", "Pentax Q User Experience Report - Arnold Stark

The Pentax Q stands out for its high-quality, solid metal construction and compact form factor, matching the size of a standard compact camera while introducing an interchangeable lens system. In terms of performance, the camera shines under dim lighting conditions thanks to its modern 1/2.3" back-illuminated CMOS sensor, which delivers remarkably low noise levels up to ISO 800 and...Read more

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C
connect-living.de
21/11/2011
Pentax Q Review - Mirrorless System Camera - connect-living

The Pentax Q review highlights a highly compact, mirrorless interchangeable-lens system camera. On the positive side, the camera boasts an attractive, retro-styled design that sits comfortably and securely in the hand. Its control elements and menu buttons are organized in a clean, user-friendly layout, making it exceptionally easy to navigate for users. Additionally, it remains the...Read more

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F
foto.lamker.de
21/01/2012
Pentax Q Hands-On Review", "Pentax Q Field Test Report", "Pentax Q Real-World Review

This practical review evaluates the Pentax Q mirrorless system camera released in late 2011, highlighting its extreme miniaturisation as its primary standout feature. The author notes that while the camera body is incredibly compact—barely larger than an Optio series point-and-shoot—it boasts a highly robust, magnesium-aluminum build quality with solid tactile buttons, an intuitive...Read more

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D
digicammuseum.de
24/11/2020
Pentax DSLM Q Monster Telephoto Focal Lengths - Digicammuseum

The review explores the experimental combination of a tiny-sensor Pentax Q mirrorless camera adapted with vintage Nikon F-mount lenses to achieve extreme, super-telephoto focal lengths. The author tests a NIKKOR 55mm f/1.2 and an ED AF NIKKOR 300mm f/4, which theoretically scale up to impressive equivalent focal lengths of 308mm and 1680mm respectively due to the massive crop...Read more

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L
lesnumeriques.com
22/11/2011
Pentax Q Review - Les Numériques", "Pentax Q Test - Les Numériques

Review Overview The Pentax Q is an ultra-compact interchangeable lens camera that stands out due to its unique miniature design, featuring a highly durable built-in flash arm and a premium, retro-styled construction. Designed similarly to advanced DSLRs, it includes manual modes and dedicated control dials that provide an intuitive experience for experienced photographers. The...Read more

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0
01net.com
01/12/2011
Pentax Q Review: The Mirrorless Camera That's a Bit Too Mini

The Pentax Q is a robust and elegant mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera praised for its exceptional compactness, system customisation, and high-quality build. In terms of functionality, it functions smoothly as an advanced yet beginner-friendly device, offering rapid continuous burst shooting, video capabilities, five system lenses, and an array of creative filters. However, its...Read more

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P
priice.fr
31/03/2013
Pentax Q - Price.fr

The Pentax Q is an exceptionally small mirrorless digital camera that stands out for its ultra-compact design and interchangeable lens capability. Its core strengths lie in its remarkably tiny dimensions (57.5 × 98 × 31 mm) and featherlight body weighing only 200 grams, blending retro styling with robust build quality and durable control dials. The review highlights its successful...Read more

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O
on-mag.fr
14/08/2012
[Hands-on] Pentax Q: interchangeable lens and excellent lo-fi experience

The Pentax Q is a lilliputian, interchangeable-lens compact camera designed for creative, vintage, and "Lo-Fi" photography enthusiasts. On the positive side, it features a robust, partially metal body with premium leatherette texturing and excellent build quality. Its standout feature is a front-facing 5-position quick dial that allows photographers to seamlessly switch between...Read more

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R
riflessifotografici.com
12/10/2011
A Short Stroll with the Pentax Q

Pentax Q The Pentax Q is evaluated as an "extreme" and highly niche Compact System Camera (CSC) that trades ultimate image quality for radical miniaturisation. Built with an exceptionally solid and ergonomic chassis, it handles comfortably with one hand and features an intuitive menu system alongside highly responsive autofocus. It is highly praised for its discretion in street...Read more

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C
camerarace.com
[Senza data specifica]
Pentax Q - Review and technical specifications

The Camerarace review highlights the Pentax Q's extremely compact and lightweight design (180 grams), making it highly suitable for street photography. While praised for its continuous autofocus performance, the camera receives a below-average overall score of 44/100 due to significant limitations. Key drawbacks identified include a limited battery life of 230 shots, a lack of...Read more

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