Canon SX260 HS vs Pentax MX-1

On this page, we are evaluating the Canon SX260 HS and Pentax MX-1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Canon and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the SX260 HS (12MP) and the MX-1 (12MP) is very close but the SX260 HS (1/2.3") and MX-1 (1/1.7") have totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The SX260 HS was announced 13 months earlier than the MX-1 making them a generation apart from one another. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the SX260 HS grades versus the MX-1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon PowerShot SX260 HS and Pentax MX-1. The whole galleries are provided at Canon SX260 HS Gallery and Pentax MX-1 Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera often, you should take into account its weight and proportions. The Canon SX260 HS offers physical dimensions of 106mm x 61mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 231 grams (0.51 lbs) while the Pentax MX-1 has measurements of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") with a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs).

Look at the Canon SX260 HS and Pentax MX-1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you use at that time. Following is a front view measurement comparison of the SX260 HS versus the MX-1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SX260 HS and MX-1 is 91 and 84 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to envision the contrast in sensor measurements only by researching specifications. The graphic below might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the SX260 HS and MX-1.

To sum up, the 2 cameras provide the same megapixel count but not the same sensor measurements. The SX260 HS uses the smaller sensor which is going to make getting shallow DOF more difficult. The older SX260 HS will be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.