With the launch of the Phase One IQ1 100mp we expect the number one question will be “What’s the difference between a Phase One IQ1 100mp and a Phase One IQ3 100mp?”. This article explains that difference. But as a prelude, we might suggest our Phase One naming clarification article.
Analogy: Car Packages
Most cars are available with different packages which include valuable, but nonessential, features. For instance the BMW 7 Series can be purchased “standard” or upgraded with heated seat and steering wheel, heads up display, blind spot detection, and some limited self-driving capabilities. These are nice features which many drivers will benefit from, but they do not affect the speed the car can drive, nor how quickly it can brake, nor how sharply it can turn.
Phase One IQ3 vs IQ1: Same Performance, Different Features
Likewise the IQ3 provides a variety of features that the IQ1 does not: tools for faster and more comprehensive review of your images, more complete integration with the XF body, a five-year warranty (including a loaner during any service), and a rolling case with extra accessories. Both share the same underlying sensor, processing boards, and interface. In most cases* the resolution, color quality, and sharpness of the IQ1 is identical to the IQ3. Contact Us to do your own evaluation (in our studio, or in yours) to see if the IQ1 or IQ3 is a better fit for your needs.
IQ3 vs IQ1 – Direct Comparison
IQ3Â | IQ1Â | Features |
Yes | No | Capture from Live View |
Yes | No | Exposure Calculator |
Yes | Yes | XF Camera Controls from Home Screen |
Yes | No | XF Camera Controls from Tool view |
Yes | No | XF Camera Controls from Camera Menu |
Yes | No | XF Camera Menu with settings for XF |
Yes | No | Exposure Zone Tool |
Yes | No | Clip Warning Tool |
Yes | No | Auto ISO and ISO control |
IQ3 | IQ1 | Storage |
Yes | No | Integrated Wi-Fi 802.11n |
Yes | Yes | USB 3 |
Yes | Yes | Firewire 800 |
Yes | No | High capacity back interface |
 IQ3 | IQ1 | Power |
Yes | No | Power Share with hot pluggable batteries |
Yes | No | Full system power via XF Power Supply |
Yes | No | Advanced Battery Status Indicators |
Yes | No | USB3 Charging from Hub(1500mA) |
 IQ3 | IQ1 | Warranty |
5 Year | 1 Year | Warranty |
Yes | No | 5 Year Uptime Guarantee (loaner) |
 IQ3 |  IQ1 | Packaging |
Yes | No | Free lens choice upon purchase |
Yes | No | Pelican Storm Case (w/ handle & wheels) |
Yes | No | Modular F-stop ICU for camera system |
Yes | No | Laptop Compartment, Built-in Tether Shade |
Yes | No | Card Reader and CF card |
Yes | No | Lens Calibration plate |
Yes | No | 2 batteries |
Yes | No | Tech camera sync cable |
100mp Specific
In addition to the above features the IQ3 100mp also has an HDMI out port which the IQ1 100mp does not.
*The IQ3 60mp and IQ3 80mp sensors differ from their IQ1 counterparts. Performance at short shutter speeds (e.g. 1/60th) is very similar, but performance for long exposures (e.g. 90 seconds) is dramatically improved.