Originally posted by caliscouser Did you upgrade the firmware on your Q? The newer firmware improved the AF and startup times.
The Olympus XZ-2 used the same sensor and lens as the MX-1, but also has an EVF option.
Small sensor though 1/1.7, same as the Q7 and Q-S1. The image quality is great for a sensor that size, but there are other options in your budget with bigger sensors.
One of the Sony RX100 series is probably going to have the best firepower/size ratio for your budget as long as like the handling.
I did upgrade the firmware on my Q. Startup and AF times aren't the problems. The time to review an image after taking it is a huge issue with the original Q. The camera menus and review are not responsive for a few seconds after taking a photo in RAW or RAW+ modes.
The XZ2 was the Olympus I was thinking about. The small sensor kills it for me. The RX100 on the other hand doesn't have a very fast lens. It's abysmally slow when zoomed.
The Samsung EX2F and Panasonic LX7 use the teeny sensor in the MX1. They're also old and outdated, but they've got the fast zoom lenses.
The Fujifilm X20 has a larger sensor and an optical viewfinder, but it's still old. So far it's the best contender if I'm going to end up buying used. But I'd rather find something modern that fits the bill.
Charles.