Pentax has announced its first ever mirrorless camera in the form of the new Pentax Q, and not only is it their first mirrorless, they’re claiming it’s also the world’s smallest and lightest interchangeable lens camera. What a way to enter the market!
Measuring just 1.2 x 2.3 x 3.9 inches, there’s no denying that the Pentax Q is a small camera, especially for one that has interchangeable lens capabilities. It weighs just 7.1 ounces (0.44 pounds), giving Pentax the right to claim for the “world’s lightest interchangeable lens camera” title.
Image quality should be cracking thanks to its 12.4 megapixel, 1/2.3 inch backlit CMOS sensor. The Q has shutter speeds of between 1/2000 to 30, ISO from 200 to 6400, and it can also shoot Full HD 1080p video at 30 frames per second. There’s support for HDR and RAW image quality as well as a variety of scene modes and creative options. On the back of the camera there’s a 3 inch LCD screen with a fantastic resolution of 460,000 dots.
The Pentax Q uses a new, aptly named, Q-Mount for lens attachment. It’s approximately one-third narrower than the existing K-mount, so Pentax will be introducing new lens kits to suit the camera. You’ll get a 47mm/F1.9 kit lens with it, but Pentax are planning to bring out a new 27.5-83mm zoom lens, a 160-degree fish eye lens and two others.
Pentax will be releasing the Q initially in Japan, then in the US and elsewhere this autumn. It is expected to cost around $800 (£500-£600).
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