Pentax Q7 Review

Features and Highlights

On this page we list some of the Pentax Q7's key features and selling points.  A number of things that make the Q7 special shouldn't be overlooked!

Tiny Size

The Q7 (together with the Q10 and Q) is the smallest interchangeable lens digital camera ever made.  It weighs under 200 grams and is smaller than many common household objects.  When used with a compact lens, the camera is easily pocketable.

New, Larger Sensor

The Pentax Q7's 1/1.7" sensor is larger than the 1/2.3" sensor found in its predecessors.  This promises improved image quality and lower noise.

Electronic Level

The Q7 now feature a built-in electronic level, which makes it easy to align your images and capture level horizons.  The electronic level displays dual-axis tilt readings alongside the other information shown in live view.  It can of course be disabled via the menu.

Complete Interchangeable Lens System

The Pentax Q system has matured over the past years, and it now includes a versatile lineup of native Q-mount lenses.  The current lineup consists of a standard prime, a standard zoom, a fisheye, a tele zoom, two toy lenses, and a cap lens.  A tele prime and a macro lens are currently being developed, according to Pentax.

Adapt DSLR Lenses

With the optional K to Q mount adapter, as well as other third-party adapters, you can adapt Pentax, Canon, Nikon, Sony, and other DSLR lenses on your Q-system camera (here shown on the original Q).  Adapted lenses will give you added telephoto reach at low cost.

Mechanical Image Stabilization

The Q7's sensor floats freely on a number of magnets, effectively compensating for up to 3 stops of camera shake with any lens.  Pentax refers to this system as "shake reduction", and this is what the "SR" badge on the front of the camera refers to. 

The camera's small size means that you can hold it more steadily than a DSLR, making it realistic to shoot hand-held at very slow shutter speeds.

120 Color Options

3 colors of the Pentax Q7 are regularly stocked: black/black, silver/black, and yellow/black, as shown below.

However, if that doesn't cut it for you, you can special order the Q7 in one of 120 different color combinations at no extra charge.  Both the body and the grip colors can be customized. Special orders usually take 2-4 weeks to be fulfilled.