Reviews: Pentax Q and Nikon J1 Mirrorless Cameras

While the electronics firms who came up with the idea of interchangeable lens compacts mainly used SLR-style sensors, it seems that traditional camera brands like Nikon and Pentax have decided to equip their mirrorless cameras with smaller, compact-worthy sensors.

The Nikon 1 J1 has a 10-Megapixel 1" sensor (8.8 x 13.2 mm). You don't need to be an expert photographer to use this camera either, as although there are still plenty of manual controls, you'll also find an effective Auto mode and some innovative new functions such as Motion Snapshot and Best Shot Selector.

The Pentax Q has a tiny 1/2.3" (4.6 x 6.2 mm) sensor that's the same size as those used in regular point-and-shoots. This has the advantage of keeping the camera body very compact, but how will it affect picture quality? With its PSAM mode dial, settings wheel and direct access to loads of advanced functions, the Q is clearly aimed at more experienced photographers.

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