Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Nikon L31 and Pentax Q10 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Nikon L31 has external dimensions of 96 x 59 x 29 mm (3.78 x 2.32 x 1.14″) and weighs 160 g (0.35 lb / 5.64 oz) (including batteries). Pentax Q10 has external dimensions of 102 x 58 x 34 mm (4.02 x 2.28 x 1.34″) and weighs 200 g (0.44 lb / 7.05 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Nikon L31 and the Pentax Q10. Nikon L31 is 6mm narrower and 5mm thinner than Pentax Q10 but it is also 1mm taller. As you can tell, actually this is not a fair size comparison since Nikon L31 has a built-in lens but Pentax Q10 doesn't. Once you put a lens on Q10, its thickness will increase significantly.
Here is the back view size comparison of the Nikon L31 and Pentax Q10.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Nikon L31 and Pentax Q10.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Nikon L31 is significantly lighter (40g ) than the Pentax Q10 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Again, this comparison may not be very useful in real life as we are comparing the weight of a camera with a built-in lens to the body-only weight of an interchangeable lens camera. Once you put a lens on Q10, the total kit will weigh much higher.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Nikon Coolpix L31 nor Pentax Q10 provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing Top Mirrorless Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Pentax Q10's 3.00" LCD screen is slightly larger than Nikon L31's 2.7 screen.
Unfortunately, both cameras has fixed screens so they don't tilt or flip in directions.