Pentax Q review // RIDICULOUSLY good fun

[@MicroFourNerds]

I love this camera 😍 hope you like the video and if you want to see more definitely check out Mattias Burling’s video! (Link in description)

[@kiwipics]

The video by Mattias Burling is excellent .... and he is even more excited by the gorgeous Q.

[@andrewbliss7710]

Making me wanna buy a Q in 2024! Saw the fun colors available and it seems like a fun way to take pics with friends on a night out. Thanks for the inspiration

[@robertlenothing1983]

Love this review. Pentax Q ticks so many boxes when it comes to enjoyment of the art and not just pixel peeping for nit-picking performance. Get out there, take pictures, print massive posters from cheap lenses and tiny sensors and just enjoy.

[@andtothewestamerica]

I learned of you channel from Mattias Burling and this is the first video I've watched. Amazing enthusiasm and great product info! Can't wait to watch more!

[@unbroken1010]

Mathias rules

[@shyhrk]

Hiya! Thanks for sharing your story and experiences! I bought a Pentax Q7 in 2017 with a 02 Standard Zoom and 06 Telephoto Zoom lens (when I was in Japan), and boy, even though I am not proficient at photography, it is fun using it! At first I thought of buying bigger mirrorless, or even DSLR maybe, but then I thought on how heavy and cumbersome they are. I checked the second-hand camera shop anyway, and found this little gem. I agree with your opinion, it is not a logical purchase, with the same price I can get (I think it was) a Sony A3000 with the kit lens. Do I feel a regret? At some points, yes, especially when someone else brought a DSLR or mirrorless with bigger sensor, and looking at the photos it was way more detailed than what I took, but then felt relieved because this little one is waaaaay snappier and faster to take a photo with and you won't feel the weight even if you bring it around with your bag (my friend uses Fujifilm XA3 or something similar, it was kinda sluggish, the focusing is great but kinda difficult to use, and somewhat heavy). Sometimes my friends' phone camera can take a more detailed photo and better night photo too, which is a thing to be envious of. But of course no telephoto zoom on their phones :p Most of the time I shoot everything using Auto or Program or Shutter priority, but when I try using manual, even though I barely understand how to use it (so many failed shots), but when I succeeded, I got extremely beautiful and one-of-a-kind photo look with it. I've moved on from 'this camera kinda suck' way of thinking. I am loving this cute camera to bits now.

[@lueniopue2488]

Pure pleasure to use it still now. It is my favourite go to camera. Tiny but really good with good controls. And Colors are awesome. As another you tuber said, Blunty, it is not a camera for serious photography but for persons who take photography seriously

[@donhoppes9274]

Really enjoyed this video, and your irrepressible enthusiasm!

[@asx516]

I've been wanting to try this camera out for fun, but didn't like the prices on ebay, amazon, etc for such an old camera ($400-600, some with international shipping?...seriously?). I recently bought the q10 that comes with the 06 tele-zoom lens for $160 on amazon of all places. Looking forward to trying it out.

[@MicroFourNerds]

That’s the exact reason I went for the q10 the second time around. I’m so mad I sold the original Q! In terms of image they’re the same really but the Q had much better build quality if I recall. They’re both great fun though and I love the small lenses!

[@GK-lf1ll]

That's a nice experience, the sensor is not too small, well suited for adapted ff zoom lenses and bird photography

[@Danny_Boel]

I had a PentaxQ back in the day but the lack of an EVF caused me to sell it of again. Now I am awaiting a Nikon 1v1 which has a slightly bigger sensor.

[@ikoyDaPnoy]

I wish Pentax would continue their Pentax Q series. I want a better looking grip (or no grip at all) & faster prime lens options. Make it look classic like it's from 1950's to 70's era too. Do this & they'll sell so fast. Add a cute viewfinder & you'll attract even more people.

[@bsuthe]

I love your videos! I just bought a Pentax Q with two lenses on ebay, in part because of your enthusiasm for this camera. I remember fondly an old Pentax Auto 110 I owned many years ago, and this also provided a reason to want this tiny Q camera. I'll let you know what I think of it after I've used it for a while!

[@MicroFourNerds]

Enjoy!! ☺️

[@Zobeid]

I still have my Q7 Premium Kit which came with a specially fitted little handbag for the camera and 01, 02, 06 and 08 lenses. I picked up the 03 fisheye lens as well, and it makes a complete photographic kit that I can neatly grasp in one hand. This was my primary camera for a few years. It has been eclipsed by more advanced gear now, but I'd still not part with it. I've never developed quite the same fondness for those newer and more capable cameras that I hold for the Q7.

[@gillyb44]

Oh joy, lovely to just go out and have fun. I recently bought an original Fuji X100. I just love it. The film simulations, built in ND filter. It works beautifully. Thanks for a smashing review. I love playing.

[@davefischer4783]

I have one and agree 100% with you. So fun to carry around.

[@TheDanielduong]

I have a QS-1. I love this thing so much, that I forget the “meep” specs 😂. I shoot AV mode with the 01 prime set to “Natural” colors, bump up the saturation and contrast, and I get lovely colorful images.

[@unbroken1010]

Someone selling the number 2 Prime you have any experience with it is it worth getting for a hundred bucks I think that's dirt cheap

[@simonebianchi4453]

I bought a Q and then a Q-S1, I have 4 Q lenses (5-15, 8.5, 15-45, 3.5 fisheye) and a PK/PQ adapter and my macro vintage Pentax SMC 100mm F4 lens. I love it, it's like forgetting about everything and shoot like a child would do, set the point, focus, shoot, it's an easygoing way and I love it. Loved your review and loved seeing how you too just love this baby. If you're going to upgrade I advise you, the Q-S1 isn't as cute as the old one, it also isn't as comfortable when shooting, and I prefer the image quality of the Q using Q lenses, BUT the image quality and the video capabilities of the Q-S1 are far better using Pentax K lenses. I would suggest you to try also the Samsung NX mini and the Nikon One V3, they are great cameras with a 1" sensor and, more importantly, they're extremely compact, very similar to the Q series.

[@Lortz2610]

I bought the original Q (crop factor 5,5) in wonderful condition at ebay a couple of weeks ago along with the standard zoom (5-15 mm), standard prime (8 mm), Fisheye and Toy Lens Telephoto. Got some cheap third party batteries and have the Q in my office backpack every day. Great fun really and the imaging quality is fantastic considering the age and sensor. I also got a 35mm CCTV lens and a simple adapter for C-mount. With this adapter you have a huge world of old and mostly cheap cinematic lenses to experiment with. It is certainly not the kind of camera you use for a wedding, but if you are into the fun and experimental aspects of photography, this is the system to go!

[@megansalt]

the color and tone in your photos are great! and you're so articulate.

[@ahoyhere8113]

loved this so much! i just recently realized i used to have fun with film, and whacky film cameras and lenses, but lost the spark because i only bought “great all around” digital cameras since the early 2000s. everything you said RESONATED. i’m gonna try one. thank you!

[@timgillison1175]

Thanks for a great review (although you are talking to the converted here, I have a Q7). I totally agree about the fun, plus the old saying that the best camera at the time is the one you have with you. I think you might be a bit dismissive of its picture quality though; I have taken some beautiful pics with it. My only worry with it is that the battery life seems very short (but then it is a tiny battery) and mine forgets the date/time when I swap batteries; maybe there is something wrong there? Anyway, thanks for a beautifully frank review; was like a breath of fresh air :-)

[@Gary_W]

Fun is definitely contagious. I don't own a Pentax Q or any of its newer iterations, but watching your video, I could feel all the fun and joy of using the system. That was pretty inspiring, thank you :)

[@Gynra]

Still have a Q and a Q7, with all three zoom lenses. They are certainly great fun, though I don't use them now as much as I ought to. I gave another, yellow, Q7 to my granddaughter, with the 50 mm f1.7 lens. She loves it. It's amazing what they packed into that small body, considering the size of the battery and SD card. I will never sell mine. Update: Inspired by this video, I have just bought a pink Q10 for my granddaughter. I hope to swap it for the yellow one, which will go into my collection.

[@Medphotovideo]

I am still using it in 2024! :)

[@evertonporter7887]

I bought a Pentax Q a few months ago, then the 02 standard zoom and have really been impressed at the results, plus it's such a fun, cute camera to use and hold. Today, I've just ordered the 06 telezoom after much dithering and I'm looking forward to using it. And no, you're not crazy😀.

[@xanfus]

I finally broke down and got one! Can't wait to get it and try out some d mount lenses!

[@patricklgreen]

Wonderful video! I have a q7 and a q10 ,all 8 lenses and a holga lens. In 2019 it is still fun to use. I love the play factor. Thank you for a fun tribute to a great little camera.

[@unbroken1010]

What's your impression of the number 2 Prime someone is selling one for a hundred bucks I think it's dirt-cheap

[@patricklgreen]

@@unbroken1010 If it is the 02-that is a fair price. The 02 is a standard zoom and not a prime. If it is the 01 Prime, that is a GREAT price and I hope you clicked buy it now!!!

[@unbroken1010]

@@patricklgreen yeah the zoom I think it's pretty fair these things were like $500 when it came out. sparked my interest with the K5 . wish Pentax would ups air quality game. Shutter failures on k-30 in k-50. My ks2 power button is getting stiff. Probably just have to leave it in the on position and just take out the battery I get extra money I might bite gr3 hopefully the. Build quality on that is a little better.. that's better than xe3 is on sale for $500 from Fuji probably be my only purchase either way for quite a while

[@austin7029]

I just bought one last week! I take it with me everywhere! Great video

[@lanimar3417]

I have the first Pentax Q. I do not see any reason to find a reason why I should a new camera. I do like it being small.

[@FlowStateNewOrleans]

I just bought a Q with the intent of adapting my Pentax Auto 110 SLR lenses for it. While I've been waiting for the adapter (could only find it in China via eBay) to get here, I bought the 02 lens. I'm really enjoying this camera. I've already ordered an adapter for my K-mount lenses, too. I'll probably, eventually, end up with a Q7 and 3 or 4 lenses. At least right now, the price premium for the QS-1 isn't quite worth it over the Q7.

[@PhotoWays]

I love the lens on this little camera. My little video of it seems to show that it's still popular. Keep up the good work. :)

[@adam346]

I am looking at a used one right now, with the COVID thing going on, looking to take up a new hobby and with all the biking and walking i am doing, figure a nice little camera like this would help me start a new hobby.

[@SpaghettiPaparazzi]

I'm with you.... It is so much fun. I Originally caught the q fever from Bluntly and Mattias who both raved about it. Luckily found someone 3 months back locally willing to part with a Q10 including 01,02,06 plus leather half case and strap in like new condition for $200usd I grabbed it cause the prices on ebay are ridiculously high for this system. I have been really wanting the Q-S1 but $300 for body alone is crazy.

[@MicroFourNerds]

What a bargain! And I think it was the blunty videos that convinced me too!

[@michaelsmith697]

I’m the same… I just buy cameras because I love em! I will look out for this one…I still haven’t found my “ideal” camera, so I just keep ‘em all…

[@heckintech]

Ayyyy, I'm from Toronto! 😃This is precious. I remember REALLY wanting one when they first came out, and I think I've got that itch again! Thanks for reminding me it exists!

[@MicroFourNerds]

I mayyyyy have just bought a Pentax Q7… in bright pink 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@heckintech]

@@MicroFourNerds ohhhhhhh, jealous! 👀

[@amdesidik305]

love your descriptions ..i love the tiny camera too

[@justusgovaert]

This is really fun and I like it. But do you maybe know which camera is the smallest with micro 4/3, efv and in body stabilization? I would like to know that camera and if it's a great one 😃

[@GabrielGGabGattringer]

Tbh I considered the Q as a replacement for my Olympus Pen E-PL3. Cause I wanted a small lightweight equipment. But then I read more reviews. Which showed more cons than pros for what I wanted to photograph. Long story short: bought a Sony A6300! And I love it. Keep in mind this sensor is hardly bigger than camera sensors in any smartphone.

[@Lortz2610]

You are right about the sensor size compared to smartphones. But don't forget the lenses! My Q beats any smartphone I have the original files from (up to iPhone 8) in terms of quality. But to be honest one cannot compare the Q with the APSC Sony 6300, that is right. However I love my Q as a supplement.

[@unbroken1010]

I have mine I still love it it's a lot of fun I don't use it as much because I need to get a new battery how is the number 2 Prime someone has one for sale for like a hundred bucks that's dirt cheap you're a micro 4/3 Channel have you ever messed around with the Kowa 12 mm 1.7. I can get one that is C mount for 160 bucks compared to what they are near that's pretty decent price but is there a difference between the ones they made for the micro 4/3 and the older ones image quality or is it the same formula I assume

[@oncleschultz]

You're a wonderful person describing an amazing system 🙂

[@matthell6719]

I just found out your channel looking for videos on mft cameras and now I discover you are a fan of the pentax q... Super. I love that camera... I am a cameras nut, I bought hundreds of them... and still haven't been able to find a deal on one... I mean in the last 5 years... I guess I'll have to spend the money. Anyway, great videos, very nice channel, I subscribed. Keep it up.

[@Kalinforrinco]

0:45 I think the Samsung NX Mini was smaller. But I'm not sure.

[@grraadd]

I love my Q7 - always with 01 lens (but I have a zoom with me at all times too). The whole set is still smaller than Pentax K-70 with small prime lens :-)

[@PushkaCom]

3 years later and I'm getting one✨✨✨

[@robinmay388]

I've always been curious about these. I saw one in York recently, I should of bought it !!

[@KeithTomlinsonPhoto]

I loved my Q10 and have no idea why I sold it. Oddly some of the Q10 shots I took were those that were commented by the Royal Photographic Society. A small camera with big abilities and ambitions. Thanks for sharing the love.

[@RyanThomasDalton]

Great video! Recently subscribed. I've always been intrigued by the tiny cameras too.

[@tobywoolgar9517]

I love your channel because now iam going to buy myself something! Thanks for the justification! 💗mycameraaddiction!!!

[@unbroken1010]

The only gripe I have about this cameras that my 50 Prime the focusing got tight real quick probably got a lemon but I track down another one the other thing about these cameras just got to trust the lenses I also love my mx1 and I actually have a Pentax 110 I have used those little 110 lenses on everything from Sony to the Q those things are amazing

[@bottomendbliss]

I like your pics. If i saw the pics by themselves id have no idea what camera was used. I like the tiny sound the flash makes when it pops up. If you listen closely it goes..Meep!

[@Edward3DFX]

Beautiful pictures and amazing video

[@barbarajames4933]

I buy handbags, got to be just wide enough at the bottom to hold my gx9 😊

[@MicroFourNerds]

Priorities. I like it!

[@unbroken1010]

On a side note I get really pissed with Pentax and Ricoh they do such interesting stuff the Q the GR the mx1 one even the K One sometimes they just drop the ball the k-50 and the 30 with nightmares every time I see them listed use. Adorama always the same thing mirror lockup failure I think it was they could just get their quality control down

[@RELATECASTS]

Emily, have you looked at the new Canon Powershot G7X III? It reminds me a bit of the old Panasonic LLX7, but with 4 uncropped 4k, ND built in, and very small and comfy. Just got one and love it! Rick

[@MicroFourNerds]

Ooo don’t tempt me with more tiny cameras 😆

[@benyyz]

Pentax needs to update the Q series. I love my Q7's, just wish they had touchscreens and better battery life.

[@MicroFourNerds]

Same. When I first used the Q in 2013 I thought the menu system was pretty modern with cool features like Filters etc but coming back to it in 2019 it definitely needs an update.

[@benyyz]

@@MicroFourNerds - just a minor update. The existing DNA on the Q is still pretty RAD compared to "new" cameras today!

[@magnoliaoff]

Is the Pentax Q 5-15MM F2.8-4.5 SMC compatible with the K-1? I'm thinking on buying one

[@garmit61]

I have the Q7. Bought it on a whim after watching an Aussie KZbinr called Blunty rave about it and fell in love with it…the Pentax, not Blunty😊. Forget the sensor size prejudism and megapixelphobia. Get out there and enjoy it.

[@MicroFourNerds]

Aargh! Blunty! I love Blunty ive watched him for years I think it was his videos that got me I to the Q originally!

[@macprocm]

I have original Q + s1 + k3-2. I mostly walk with the Q, great Why have Pentax stopped

[@MikeChesworthPhotography]

Love the images that this camera takes. Reminds me of some of the filters you get in phone apps. I'd love to do some street photography with the camera, looks like great fun. 😄

[@tristandeniet]

I had a question for you. I'm wondering if you recall what settings you were using for some of those outside shots. I just got this camera and it looks like you were possibly using color exclusion on the greens? It looks very cool and unique and I wanted to see if I could get a similar look. Thank you!

[@SummersSnaps]

WooHoo! All my Pentaxians say YAY!!.....

[@kirbotron2418]

Yay

[@SummersSnaps]

@@kirbotron2418

[@hoanglong-nv6wv]

Ew ... I meant yay

[@SummersSnaps]

@@hoanglong-nv6wv hehe

[@spangancayco]

Loved your review! What are your thoughts on the jpgs coming out of the camera? I’d prefer not to shoot raw and deal with post-processing. Thanks!

[@MicroFourNerds]

They’re pretty good, very good in decent light! The built in filters and effects are fun to play with too ☺️

[@tobywoolgar9517]

Hi i would like to ask your opinion 👸 of M4T . What is the sharpest lens out of the 25mm 1.4 or the 30mm 2.8 macro . I have heard they're both sharp and for me either would be very useful in what i shoot. Oh ! Can the 30mm do portraits like every body says as well as macro? Great channel 💫💫💫💫💫

[@MicroFourNerds]

Thank you! Yes they’re both incredibly sharp, and the 30mm will do brilliant for portraits. Though I have to say I love the 25mm for portraits too. The 25mm is better in low light and offers better shallow depth of field, but is terrible at macro. It doesn’t focus closely at all. It really is for more standard uses, and great for video. The 30mm is sharp and brilliant for macro of course, but not quite as good in low light. They’re both great lenses!

[@tobywoolgar9517]

@@MicroFourNerds Thanks for your reply thats really helpful information! By next week i will make a decision! I hope lol thanks again 👍

[@ingejustavanderhelm5208]

That's pure passion! ♡

[@blu0065]

What about the metabones "devil's" speedbooster? When Stanley Kubrick's voice whispers in your ear and tells you to use the full f/0.666, you can't ignore it! Also, does anybody know of any Nikon G/F compatible lenses that are f/1.2 other than the Nikon Noct and 55mm?

[@michaelm1]

It's really a cute flash. Number 5 is alive.

[@MicroFourNerds]

That’s exactly what it reminds me of 😂

[@markhckidz87]

How small is the sensor? Love the result though. Perfect for street photography.👍

[@manifestresults]

The Q and Q10 are 1/2.3 - Q7 and QS are 1/1.7 sensors - I recommend the Q7 or QS with the larger sensor and the 01 prime lens because that combination equates 40mm at full frame which is ideal for street. The original Q has issues with corruption which makes it impossible to turn on. It is not repairable. I don't recommend a used original Q. Buy the QS or Q7 secondhand. I have a Q7 with several lenses.

[@Techofthepast91]

i sold my pentax q and have missed it from day one and ive just fout a mint in box one on ebay so i couldnt say no :D cant wait tor it to arrive :):)

[@guyjordan8201]

Fun is sound and logical more often than you'd think

[@zetorek83]

Nikon v series is fun too

[@douglasolsen1208]

Cameras for fun!? What madness is this? Sounds like lots of fun. I have long admired Pentax gear. Innovative and durable. Ran into Korean street photogs using film K1000’s in 1980 when those cameras were very low end. These guys seemed to be making a living with them. Somehow.

[@hoorayforpentax3801]

Isn't it possible to fit the entire system into the space occupied by a DSLR and a half-decent zoom?

[@petepictures]

Is it smaller than the Pan GM1? Nice review

[@MicroFourNerds]

It is slightly smaller and the lenses definitely are! Thanks for watching ☺️

[@Brooklyncameraclub]

What filter are you using in your color photos?

[@ordinosaurs]

You're so lucky. I've been looking for one at a reasonable price for years, but no cigar. I only find some in shady states and ridiculously overpriced.

[@MicroFourNerds]

Ordinosaurs & retro computers I was so happy to have found it in an actual shop. I knew the moment I saw it I wasn’t going to leave without it 🤣

[@Astrolavista]

If your buying second hand it really doesn't matter, you're not wasting money. Your turning numbers on your bank account into something you can use and enjoy. As you know you'll get most your money back if you sell, Which I'm sure you wont do for a second time, but if you do you can always buy a third :)

[@wedchic7]

They could've fit in a bigger sensor in there. 😊

[@zekirami]

Great vedio nice photos iam going to get this camera 📷 .. is it easy to use ?

[@MicroFourNerds]

The menus are a little dated now compared to other brands but yes I think it’s very easy and fun to use 😊

[@unbroken1010]

Who thinks a k5 is still worth it in 2020. For a decent price Have a ks2 but the power button is getting stiff.

[@AnnaVahtera]

For the exact same reasons, I bought a (pink) Nikon 1 J2 :)

[@2Old4Toys]

Bravo for sharing the love with pentax Q.

[@yurypisar347]

Very inspiring video. Thanks!

[@goateyephotography808]

I really hope Pentax will do a new Q model at some point in the future.

[@MicroFourNerds]

I’d love that too, it’s so cute! I think the operating system needs a bit of an update for sure

[@goateyephotography808]

@@MicroFourNerds I'd definitely buy one of those.

[@Lortz2610]

@@goateyephotography808 So would I :)

[@evertonporter7887]

Imagine a new Q with action camera specs like 1080p @60fps, 4k video, timelapse, hyperlapse etc. I have a GoPro Hero 7 black and I'm amazed what this camera can do for its size. Now apply that to a Q, and Ricoh Pentax would be on to a winner!

[@HatRSol]

Love your Pentax soul, if I wasn't an old guru OI would have come to get you :-)

[@madphotographer762]

Tiny Cameras rock.... Pentax Cute!!

[@MicroFourNerds]

Aww they should have called it that!

[@gaoldias]

When were you in Toronto? Just up the highway from me...lol!

[@MicroFourNerds]

It was a little while back now, 2013 I think!! Amazing place I can’t wait to go again. I almost went last year to catch the Matthew Good tour but alas, money did not align

[@gaoldias]

@@MicroFourNerds I'm in Ottawa. Also a nice place to visit (and the capital of Canada). Love the channel!

[@hallvardpaulsen]

Thought the Lumix GM1 was the world smallest..

[@MicroFourNerds]

It is ever so negligibly larger in the body, but the lenses, being m43, are miles bigger

[@rascalhusky8129]

Good educational video. Are you from Yorkshire?

[@MicroFourNerds]

Merseyside 😊

[@chroniclesofNarina]

Can the Pentax q shoot video? Or is it just photos?

[@MicroFourNerds]

It can but it’s limited. 1080p 25p

[@osliverpool]

Ooh, there's a rather fetching pink and blue one on eBay UK right now - only 15 hours left.

[@MicroFourNerds]

Some of the colour combinations are great I’m a bit sad I have a black one

[@barbarajames4933]

I’m sunk! The pink is cute but the canary yellow body with brushed pale gold top matches my new purse. Or is that too matchy matchy?

[@MicroFourNerds]

Barbara James never too matchy matchy 😁

[@Lortz2610]

@@MicroFourNerds I have a black and a white one. Bought the black one for the Telephoto Toy Lens and Fisheye only, but the seller did not want to seperate the package. So now I have two original Q's at my hands :D

[@boris.dupont]

I love your passion and the way you look at things and life and people. So cute and positive and deep in the same time, splendid! I don't know this camera but Pentax is excellent and underrated. Thanks and have fun!

[@teamhazardous201]

Now I want one

[@neilpiper9889]

I have the original Ricoh grd with 8.1 megapixels. I love small cameras and am thinking of getting a Pentax q from Ricoh's sister company. Another cult to follow.

[@skrillawarlock]

Is there like a 50mm lens for camera?

[@bryanescalante2871]

Not primes but the 02 zoom lens should give you that 50mm ... But you could adapt any 10mm lens to get that 50mm look since it has a 5.6 crop factor

[@tender0828]

Lovely video!

[@mariobosse9600]

Nice to try ....

[@klb430]

I just watched several videos on the pentax q and have a bid out on ebay 🤞😁

[@adrianhilltobar3690]

nice vid thanks for info

[@GONZOFAM7]

I didn't know I wanted one until now. Meep.

[@PhotoWays]

I think I need to get one of these. :)