Leica V-Lux 20 vs Pentax S1

The following is a extended analysis of the Leica V-Lux 20 versus Pentax S1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Leica and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the V-Lux 20 (12MP) and the S1 (14MP) is very well matched and they enjoy the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The V-Lux 20 was manufactured 10 months prior to the S1 which means that they are of a similar age. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a short overview of how the V-Lux 20 grades vs the S1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Leica V-Lux 20 & Pentax Optio S1. The entire galleries are viewable at Leica V-Lux 20 Gallery & Pentax S1 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to travel with your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor its weight and proportions. The Leica V-Lux 20 features exterior dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 218 grams (0.48 lbs) whilst the Pentax S1 has measurements of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Look at the Leica V-Lux 20 versus Pentax S1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are using during that time. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the V-Lux 20 versus the S1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the V-Lux 20 and S1 is 91 and 93 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor dimensions purely by looking at specifications. The picture underneath will offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the V-Lux 20 and S1.

To sum up, both cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same resolution. You can expect to see the Pentax S1 to give you more detail due to its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The more aged V-Lux 20 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.