Canon SX170 IS vs Pentax X-5

Let's take a deeper look at the Canon SX170 IS vs Pentax X-5, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Canon and Pentax. The image resolution of the SX170 IS (16MP) and the X-5 (16MP) is pretty close and both cameras have the same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SX170 IS was manufactured 13 months after the X-5 which makes them a generation away from one another. Both the cameras have different body design with the Canon SX170 IS being a Compact camera and the Pentax X-5 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before going into a thorough comparison, here is a quick summary of how the SX170 IS matches up vs the X-5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX170 IS and Pentax X-5. The entire galleries are provided at Canon SX170 IS Gallery and Pentax X-5 Gallery.

When you are aiming to travel with your camera frequently, you're going to have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Canon SX170 IS provides outside dimensions of 108mm x 71mm x 44mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.7") and a weight of 251 grams (0.55 lbs) while the Pentax X-5 has dimensions of 119mm x 86mm x 107mm (4.7" x 3.4" x 4.2") accompanied by a weight of 595 grams (1.31 lbs).

Check the Canon SX170 IS vs Pentax X-5 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are employing during that time. The following is a front view over all size comparison of the SX170 IS compared to the X-5.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SX170 IS and X-5 is 88 and 65 respectively.

More often than not, it is tough to envision the difference in sensor dimensions just by viewing specifications. The image below will help offer you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SX170 IS and X-5.

To sum up, the two cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the same megapixels and you should expect comparable quality of pictures however you have to consider the production date of the cameras into account. The newer SX170 IS will have an edge with regard to sensor technology.