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Pentax Q compact system camera

The cutest camera in the world?

Details, details...

As you might expect, the camera struggles at the higher ISO settings reducing in detail and saturation and increasing in noise the higher you go. Noise reduction can’t be turned off entirely, but selecting the low level NR option brings back some detail even at ISO 6400. Pixel-peeping aside, and given adequate lighting, the Q can deliver very pleasing results despite these shortcomings.

Pentax Q interchangeable-lens compact system camera

RAW shooting is on-board along with quite a few in-camera processes

Indeed, it’s capable of all manner of thrilling photographic stunts, enabling creativity far exceeding that of any other camera its size. It’s jam-packed with features that I haven’t been able to touch on in detail here, including sophisticated in-camera RAW image processing, sensor-shift image stabilisation, automatic HDR and the ability to tweak and adjust just about everything everywhere.

Pentax Q interchangeable-lens compact system camera

Being a self-respecting compact system camera, accessories abound

Verdict

Due to its size and sensor format, the Pentax Q is fighting at a big disadvantage from the start when it comes to image quality. However, it presents itself so well and offers so many enthusiast-friendly features that it’s one underdog that’s really hard not to root for. Despite its limitations, I find myself really wanting to own one. ®

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Pentax Q interchangeable-lens compact system camera

Pentax Q compact system camera

Tiny mirrorless system camera with 12Mp sensor and a range of lenses and accessories.
Price: £400 (with 8.5mm prime lens), £580 (8.5mm prime with 5-15mm zoom) RRP

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