Canon SX170 IS vs Pentax E85

Here, we will be matching up the Canon SX170 IS versus Pentax E85, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Canon and Pentax. There is a noticeable difference among the resolutions of the SX170 IS (16MP) and E85 (12MP) but both cameras provide the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SX170 IS was manufactured 3 years later than the E85 and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a simple overview of how the SX170 IS grades against the E85 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SX170 IS & Pentax Optio E85. The entire galleries are available at Canon SX170 IS Gallery & Pentax E85 Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor its weight and volume. The Canon SX170 IS features external dimensions of 108mm x 71mm x 44mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.7") with a weight of 251 grams (0.55 lbs) while the Pentax E85 has sizing of 93mm x 58mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.3" x 0.9") along with a weight of 145 grams (0.32 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon SX170 IS versus Pentax E85 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are utilising during that time. Following is a front view dimension comparison of the SX170 IS versus the E85.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the SX170 IS and E85 is 88 and 95 respectively.

Generally, it can be difficult to see the gap in sensor sizing just by checking out a spec sheet. The photograph here will help provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the SX170 IS and E85.

As you can see, both the cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit not the same resolution. You can count on the Canon SX170 IS to produce extra detail due to its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop photographs way more aggressively. The fresher SX170 IS is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.