Canon G12 vs Pentax E85

In this write-up, we are looking at the Canon G12 vs Pentax E85, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by competitors Canon and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the G12 (10MP) and the E85 (12MP) is very similar but the G12 (1/1.7") and E85 (1/2.3") possess totally different sensor size.

Apple Innovates by Creating Next-Level Optical Stabilization for iPhone

The G12 was unveiled 17 months after the E85 making the cameras a generation away from one another. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the G12 grades against the E85 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon PowerShot G12 & Pentax Optio E85. The full galleries are viewable at Canon G12 Gallery & Pentax E85 Gallery.

When you are planning to travel with your camera often, you will have to consider its weight and proportions. The Canon G12 enjoys exterior measurements of 112mm x 76mm x 48mm (4.4" x 3.0" x 1.9") accompanied by a weight of 401 grams (0.88 lbs) while the Pentax E85 has measurements of 93mm x 58mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.3" x 0.9") along with a weight of 145 grams (0.32 lbs).

Contrast the Canon G12 vs Pentax E85 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are working with during that time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the G12 vs the E85.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the G12 and E85 is 83 and 95 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to visualise the gap between sensor dimensions purely by going over technical specs. The image below will give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the G12 and E85.

As you can tell, both of the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The G12 with its larger sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field easier and the Pentax E85 will deliver extra detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution will help you crop pics a little more aggressively. The fresher G12 is going to have a benefit in sensor innovation.