Now is the perfect time for the Pentax Q to make a comeback
Pentax’s tiny mirrorless system debuted at exactly the wrong time. Here’s why I think it could be a huge hit in the 2020s. The post Now is the perfect time for the Pentax Q to make a comeback appeared first on Amateur Photographer .
There's a compelling argument for the resurgence of the Pentax Q camera. Launched in 2011, the Q system remains the smallest interchangeable-lens mirrorless system available, with its initially diminutive 1/2.3-inch sensor allowing lenses to fit in a pocket. Despite its initial failure, the Q's small sensor garnered criticism from reviewers and the emergence of full-frame mirrorless cameras like the Sony A7 series in 2013 further diminished the market's demand for compact, convenient cameras.
However, a shift towards affordable pocketable compact cameras in 2025 presents a prime opportunity for the Pentax Q to make a comeback. The rise of 1/2.3-inch sensors in smartphones has made high-quality images from these sensors standard, encouraging big tech companies to invest in improving image quality for this sensor size.
Meanwhile, full-frame mirrorless cameras have become increasingly large, expensive, and complex, making them inaccessible to many hobbyists. The Pentax Q system's devoted fanbase, who appreciate its convenience, vibrant colors, and creative digital filters, could once again embrace the camera with a modern update and updated image processing capabilities. Pricing the camera affordably would ensure its success, avoiding the pitfalls of the 2014 release.
Written by urgent.news from Amateur Photographer's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
