Canon SX500 IS vs Pentax X-5

Let's take a deeper look at the Canon SX500 IS versus Pentax X-5, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by manufacturers Canon and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the SX500 IS (16MP) and the X-5 (16MP) is relatively similar and they possess the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SX500 IS was brought out within a month of the X-5 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Canon SX500 IS being a Compact camera and the Pentax X-5 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before going straight into a thorough comparison, below is a simple summary of how the SX500 IS scores against the X-5 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SX500 IS & Pentax X-5. The entire galleries are available at Canon SX500 IS Gallery & Pentax X-5 Gallery.

If you're aiming to lug around your camera often, you are going to need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Canon SX500 IS enjoys outer dimensions of 104mm x 70mm x 80mm (4.1" x 2.8" x 3.1") accompanied by a weight of 341 grams (0.75 lbs) whilst 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).

Take a look at the Canon SX500 IS versus Pentax X-5 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you have chosen at the time. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the SX500 IS vs the X-5.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the SX500 IS and X-5 is 80 and 65 respectively.

Usually, it is tough to imagine the gap between sensor measurements purely by reading specifications. The photograph below should give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the SX500 IS and X-5.

Plainly, each of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the exact same megapixels therefore you can expect similar quality of pictures however you have to factor the launch date of the products into consideration.