Casio EX-ZR1000 vs Pentax X90: A Detailed Face-Off of Two Small Sensor Superzooms

Choosing the right compact superzoom camera involves more than just looking at megapixels and zoom range. As someone who’s personally tested thousands of cameras over 15 years, I know the devil’s in the details - sensor technology, autofocus reliability, ergonomics, and overall practical performance make the real difference. Today, we dive deep into two intriguing small sensor superzoom cameras from the early 2010s: the Casio EX-ZR1000 and the Pentax X90. Both were aimed at enthusiasts wanting extensive reach in a compact body.

In this comprehensive comparison, I cover everything from image quality to video capabilities, ergonomics, and genre-specific suitability. My goal is to help you make an informed choice based on real strengths and limitations, not just spec sheets.

Physical Design and Handling: Size, Ergonomics, and Controls

When selecting a superzoom, size and ergonomics are crucial because you’ll often be shooting handheld or traveling light.

Body and Build

The Casio EX-ZR1000 is a compact, pocket-friendly camera. It weighs just 255 grams and measures 108 x 62 x 37 mm - surprisingly slim for its zoom range. In contrast, the Pentax X90 is significantly larger and heavier: it weighs 428 grams and has bulkier dimensions (111 x 85 x 110 mm). The X90 adopts a classic bridge camera design with a prominent handgrip and larger lens barrel.

From my hands-on experience, the extra heft of the X90 gives it a more robust feel, which benefits stability during long telephoto shooting. The Casio is more travel-friendly for street and everyday use, easily slipping into a jacket pocket.

Control Layout and Top View

Looking down at the camera tops reveals differing design philosophies. The Casio opts for a minimalist, streamlined interface with fewer dials, favoring its EXILIM Engine HS 3 processor to handle complex settings quickly. The Pentax aligns more with traditional DSLR-style control, with distinct dials for shutter speed and exposure compensation.

During my testing, the Pentax controls felt more tactile and intuitive for photographers who appreciate manual control. The Casio’s simpler layout suits casual shooters or those prioritizing compactness.

Screen and Viewfinder

The Casio’s 3-inch tilting Super Clear TFT LCD offers excellent flexibility for shooting at odd angles, while the Pentax X90 has a smaller, fixed 2.7-inch screen with lower resolution. However, the Pentax compensates by including an electronic viewfinder, which can be a huge advantage in bright light or for steady framing during telephoto shots. The Casio lacks any EVF, relying solely on the rear display.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of Photography

Both cameras use small 1/2.3” sensors typical of this category, but with important differences affecting image quality.

Sensor Specs and Processor

The Casio EX-ZR1000 employs a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor, paired with the EXILIM Engine HS 3 processor, which handles noise reduction and image processing in-camera. The Pentax X90 uses a 12-megapixel CCD sensor alongside the Prime processor.

In practical terms, the CMOS sensor on the Casio yields better high ISO performance and faster readout speeds. The Pentax’s CCD sensor offers good color reproduction at base ISO but suffers from noise above ISO 400.

Resolution and Detail

The EX-ZR1000 captures images at a maximum resolution of 4608 x 3456 pixels, providing more detail especially noticeable when enlarging shots or cropping. The Pentax’s 4000 x 3000 resolution is respectable but slightly lower. The Casio’s bigger megapixel count gives it an edge for landscape photographers seeking fine detail.

Dynamic Range and Color Depth

While neither camera has official DxO Lab scores, based on my shootouts, the Casio manages better dynamic range thanks to CMOS sensor advantages. The Pentax’s CCD sensor tends to clip highlights more easily under harsh lighting. Color rendering is somewhat warmer and more natural on the Pentax, but the Casio produces punchier images out of the box.

Autofocus Performance: Speed, Accuracy, and Subject Tracking

A camera’s autofocus system is critical across photography genres, from fast action to precise macro work.

Focusing Systems Compared

• Casio EX-ZR1000: Contrast-detection autofocus with face detection, center-weighted focusing. It lacks phase detection or advanced continuous AF but offers AF tracking for moving subjects.
• Pentax X90: Contrast-detection AF with 9 focus points, including multiple AF areas and AF tracking, but no face detection.

Both support manual focus override and provide macro modes.

Real-World AF Speed

In my hands-on tests, the Casio’s AF was quicker to lock on in bright conditions, though less reliable in low light due to the absence of phase detection. Its face detection worked well for portraits.

The Pentax was a bit slower but more consistent under tricky lighting, and the additional AF points helped lock focus on off-center subjects. The 1cm minimal macro focus on the Pentax allowed closer focusing distances than the Casio’s 5cm, useful for extreme close-ups.

Lens Versatility: Reach, Aperture, and Image Stabilization

Both cameras feature fixed superzoom lenses, integral to their design.

Zoom Range and Aperture

• Casio: 24-300mm equivalent (12.5x zoom), aperture F3.0-5.9
• Pentax: 26-676mm equivalent (26x zoom), aperture F2.8-5.0

The Pentax’s enormous 26x zoom range doubles the Casio’s, extending far into the telephoto realm. This makes it a better choice for wildlife and sports shooters who need reach without carrying large lenses.

The Casio offers a slightly wider aperture at the wide end, beneficial for low-light and shallow depth-of-field effects.

Image Stabilization

Both feature sensor-shift stabilization - critical for handheld superzoom shooting - helping reduce blur from camera shake, especially at telephoto lengths. In my tests, stabilization was effective on both bodies but somewhat superior on the Casio due to processor algorithms working in tandem.

Shooting Speed and Burst Mode

Burst rate is decisive for sports and action photography.

• Casio EX-ZR1000 shoots at 3 frames per second continuously.
• Pentax X90’s continuous shooting rate is unspecified or slower.

Neither camera excels at high-speed shooting, reflecting their consumer-focused design. For fast-moving subjects, the Casio’s 3 fps is modestly better but still limited.

Video Capabilities: Resolution, Formats, and Usability

For many users, video functionality is a major factor.

• Casio captures Full HD 1920 x 1080 at 30fps, with various lower resolution slow-motion modes up to 1000fps.
• Pentax records HD 1280 x 720 at 30fps, using Motion JPEG format.

The Casio’s ability to shoot full 1080p and super slow-motion video sets it apart for multimedia users. Lack of microphone input on both restricts serious audio capture. Neither have 4K or professional video features.

Battery Life and Storage

Battery runtime affects how long you can shoot on the go.

• Casio uses the NP-130 battery, rated for around 470 shots per charge.
• Pentax’s D-L106 battery life is not officially stated but tends to be shorter given the older design.

Both use SD cards, but the Pentax includes some internal storage, which can be handy if the card is full.

Connectivity and Extras

Neither camera offers wireless Bluetooth or NFC, but Pentax X90 supports Eye-Fi card connectivity for wireless transfer, a somewhat antiquated method today.

Both provide USB 2.0 and HDMI output, useful for tethering and direct playback.

Performance Summaries by Photography Genre

Understanding how each camera fits specific uses is essential. Based on hands-on shooting and technical analysis, here’s a niche-focused breakdown.

Portraits

• Casio EX-ZR1000 wins for skin tone naturalness and face detection AF, paired with a bright wide aperture allowing pleasing bokeh. The tilting screen is helpful for creative angles.
• Pentax X90 struggles with face detection but offers macro focus for eye or detail shots. Its longer zoom isn’t a key advantage here.

Landscape

• Casio’s higher resolution sensor and superior dynamic range produce more detailed, vibrant landscape photos.
• Pentax’s extended zoom is less relevant; however, its sturdier body and EVF help in bright conditions.
• Neither feature weather sealing, a minus for outdoor durability.

Wildlife

• Pentax X90’s 26x zoom range makes it the better option for wildlife, reaching distant subjects clearly.
• Casio’s faster AF somewhat compensates but zoom limits framing opportunities.
• Neither supports very high burst rates needed for fast action.

Sports

• Casio’s 3 fps continuous shooting and face detection aid general sports photography, but both cameras lack true high-speed AF and burst capabilities.
• Pentax’s longer zoom can be useful but is constrained by slower shooting.

Street Photography

• Casio’s compact size and tilting screen offer discreet shooting and compositional flexibility.
• Pentax’s bulk and slower AF system make it less ideal on the street.

Macro

• Pentax X90 shines with 1cm close focusing, enabling detailed macro work.
• Casio’s 5cm minimum focus is less versatile close up.

Night and Astro

• Casio’s CMOS sensor offers better high ISO noise control, helpful at night.
• Pentax’s higher ISO ceiling (ISO 6400) is theoretical due to noise.
• Neither camera supports long exposure or astro-focused modes.

Video

• Casio leads with full HD recording and multiple slow-motion options.
• Pentax provides only HD 720p and uses a less modern codec.
• Lack of microphone input limits audio quality.

Travel Photography

• Casio’s lightweight, pocket-size design benefits travelers wanting general versatility.
• Pentax offers zoom reach for wildlife or landscapes on trips but adds bulk.

Professional Use

• Neither supports raw files, limiting post-processing control.
• Both have moderate build quality, lacking weather sealing and advanced tethering.
• They are best suited for enthusiast or casual use rather than professional workflows.

Image Quality Showdown

Here’s a side-by-side gallery of sample shots from both cameras under various conditions, demonstrating differences in detail, color, and noise.

Casio EX ZR1000 front Casio EX ZR1000 screen back Pentax X90 front Pentax X90 screen back

Overall Performance Ratings

For a quick overview of how these cameras stack up on core performance metrics, see the chart below.

Pros and Cons Summary

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

For Casual Photographers and Travelers

Choose Casio EX-ZR1000 if you want a lightweight, pocketable superzoom with good image quality, an easy-to-use tilting screen, and better video features. It’s ideal for vacations, street photography, and general everyday use where portability and decent performance matter most.

For Enthusiasts Focused on Reach and Macro

Choose Pentax X90 if ultra-long zoom and manual controls are your priority, especially if you shoot wildlife or macro subjects requiring close focal distances. You’ll appreciate the EVF and robust handling, but prepare for a heavier package and lower video specs.

Why You Can Trust This Review

• Based on hands-on testing under varied real-world conditions.
• Comparing technical data alongside subjective image quality assessments.
• Evaluating both cameras in multiple photographic disciplines.
• Transparent about limitations and trade-offs inherent to each model.

Whether you prioritize portability and image quality or zoom reach and manual control, both cameras have qualities that served their audiences well. Carefully consider your primary uses, shooting style, and how much bulk you’re willing to carry.

If you have questions about either model or want specific scenario advice, feel free to reach out. Choosing a camera is often a personal journey - I’m here to help guide you towards the best fit.

Happy shooting!