Kodak Z981 vs Pentax XG-1

Lets take a deeper look at the Kodak Z981 versus Pentax XG-1, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Kodak and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the Z981 (14MP) and the XG-1 (16MP) is pretty well matched and both cameras offer the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The Z981 was announced 5 years before the XG-1 and that is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have the same body design (SLR-like (bridge)).

Before diving straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a short summary of how the Z981 grades against the XG-1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Kodak EasyShare Z981 & Pentax XG-1. The whole galleries are available at Kodak Z981 Gallery & Pentax XG-1 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to lug around your camera regularly, you have to consider its weight and proportions. The Kodak Z981 comes with external measurements of 124mm x 85mm x 105mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 4.1") with a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs) whilst the Pentax XG-1 has measurements of 119mm x 89mm x 98mm (4.7" x 3.5" x 3.9") having a weight of 567 grams (1.25 lbs).

Analyze the Kodak Z981 versus Pentax XG-1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the Z981 vs the XG-1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the Z981 and XG-1 is 66 and 66 respectively.

In many cases, it is very tough to imagine the gap between sensor measurements simply by looking at specs. The photograph below will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the Z981 and XG-1.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different megapixels. You can expect the Pentax XG-1 to give you extra detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will let you crop shots more aggressively. The older Z981 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.