Canon SX170 IS vs Pentax X90

Below is a in-depth assessment of the Canon SX170 IS versus Pentax X90, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Canon and Pentax. There exists a large gap among the sensor resolutions of the SX170 IS (16MP) and X90 (12MP) but both cameras posses the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SX170 IS was launched 3 years later than the X90 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Canon SX170 IS being a Compact camera and the Pentax X90 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before delving right into a detailed comparison, here is a simple overview of how the SX170 IS scores vs the X90 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon PowerShot SX170 IS & Pentax X90. The complete galleries are provided at Canon SX170 IS Gallery & Pentax X90 Gallery.

When you are aiming to lug around your camera, you'll have to take into account its weight and size. The Canon SX170 IS comes with exterior measurements of 108mm x 71mm x 44mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.7") having a weight of 251 grams (0.55 lbs) and the Pentax X90 has specifications of 111mm x 85mm x 110mm (4.4" x 3.3" x 4.3") along with a weight of 428 grams (0.94 lbs).

Check out the Canon SX170 IS versus Pentax X90 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are utilising at the time. Below is a front view dimensions comparison of the SX170 IS versus the X90.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SX170 IS and X90 is 88 and 69 respectively.

Normally, it is hard to envision the gap in sensor measurements simply by looking through technical specs. The photograph underneath will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SX170 IS and X90.

As you have seen, both the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but not the same MP. You can expect to see the Canon SX170 IS to render greater detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop images more aggressively. The more modern SX170 IS is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor technology.