Canon A490 vs Pentax MX-1

On this page, we will be analyzing the Canon A490 and Pentax MX-1, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by brands Canon and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the A490 (10MP) and the MX-1 (12MP) is relatively close but the A490 (1/2.3") and MX-1 (1/1.7") provide different sensor size.

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The A490 was launched 4 years earlier than the MX-1 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief view of how the A490 matches up against the MX-1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot A490 and Pentax MX-1. The complete galleries are provided at Canon A490 Gallery and Pentax MX-1 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry your camera frequently, you will have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Canon A490 features external dimensions of 94mm x 62mm x 31mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 175 grams (0.39 lbs) and the Pentax MX-1 has dimensions of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") along with a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs).

Analyze the Canon A490 and Pentax MX-1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have chosen at that time. Following is a front view size comparison of the A490 and the MX-1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the A490 and MX-1 is 93 and 84 respectively.

More often than not, it can be difficult to visualize the difference in sensor sizing merely by viewing technical specs. The visual here might provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the A490 and MX-1.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The A490 featuring a smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF more difficult and the Pentax MX-1 will render extra detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop shots a bit more aggressively. The older A490 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.