Pentax Q-S1 Officially Announced

New stylish ultra-compact mirrorless camera

By PF Staff in Pentax Announcements on Aug 4, 2014

Ricoh Imaging (Pentax) has just officially announced the Pentax Q-S1, the latest addition to Pentax's lineup of ultra-compact interchangeable lens cameras.

The Q-S1 is a cosmetic refresh of the Pentax Q7, much like the Pentax Q10 was an externally-redesigned Pentax Q. While small software tweaks have been made, in terms of hardware specifications, the Q-S1 does not differ at all from the Q7 (more details on the minor tweaks can be found later in this post).

Pentax Q-S1 key specifications:

Sensor: 12.4-megapixel 1/1.7" CMOS (4000x3000px resolution)
Stabilization: Sensor-shift Shake Reduction
Video recording: 1080p/720p/VGA at up to 30FPS
Monitor: 3" LCD, 460k dots, 3:2 aspect ratio
Viewfinder: N/A
Lens mount: Pentax Q-mount (accepts virtually any lens via adapter)
Weight: 203g
Dimensions: 105 x 58 x 34mm (4.13 x 2.28 x 1.34")

Based on the press release, it's evident that Pentax is placing an emphasis on the fashionable appearance and small size of the Q-S1. Rather than being made of plastic (like the Q7/Q10) or magnesium alloy (like the Q), the Q-S1 features aluminum panels and synthetic leather in the front.

"Along with its stylish, petite body, this new model offers impressive specifications and a fashionable design with precision details. The PENTAX Q-S1 is an ideal everyday camera for photographers of all levels, complete with an entire system of lenses designed for on-the-go fun.

The Q-S1 sports a classic design, with meticulous attention paid even to the texture of the finest details, making it a perfect everyday camera to carry around under all kinds of situations. Its Quick Dial and grip are made of high-grade aluminum for an exclusive look, and are symmetrically positioned for holding comfort and visual attractiveness. For the first time in the Q series, synthetic leather has been used for the front panel, to improve the texture and appearance."
-Ricoh Imaging Americas Q-S1 Press Release

Pentax Q-S1 Custom Colors Pentax Q-S1 custom color options: notice the metallic finish.

Four standard color options will be available for the Q-S1: black, gold, gunmetal, and white. On top of this, you will be able to special-order 36 additional custom color combinations for the body. When ordering a custom Q-S1, you will also be able to choose between 5 different colors for the 01 standard prime to match the color of the body.

US launch pricing for the Pentax Q-S1 is as follows:

Q-S1 body: $399
Q-S1 zoom kit: $499
Q-S1 dual lens kit: $699

The camera is expected to start shipping in late August.

As with any new camera release, minor tweaks and enhancements are made via software. Among the software improvements in the Q-S1 is the addition of continuous autofocus during video (not available with the 03, 04, 05, or 06 lenses). Pentax also promises improved everyday performance.

The mysterious second dial on the front of the camera seems to be a purely cosmetic addition.

The camera's button layout is otherwise unchanged compared to that of the Q7.