Kodak M550 vs Pentax RZ18

On this page, we will be reviewing the Kodak M550 versus Pentax RZ18, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Kodak and Pentax. There is a big difference between the resolutions of the M550 (12MP) and RZ18 (16MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The M550 was manufactured 20 months before the RZ18 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving right into a full comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the M550 grades versus the RZ18 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Kodak EasyShare M550 and Pentax Optio RZ18. The entire galleries are provided at Kodak M550 Gallery and Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to carry your camera frequently, you should factor its weight and measurements. The Kodak M550 provides outside measurements of 98mm x 58mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) and the Pentax RZ18 has proportions of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Take a look at the Kodak M550 versus Pentax RZ18 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are employing at that time. The following is a front view physical size comparison of the M550 and the RZ18.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the M550 and RZ18 is 95 and 92 respectively.

Generally, its difficult to see the difference between sensor sizing simply by reviewing specs. The graphic below might give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the M550 and RZ18.

As you can plainly see, the two cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same megapixels. You should count on the Pentax RZ18 to offer you extra detail due to its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop pictures more aggressively. The older M550 is going to be behind in sensor tech.