Nikon L19 vs Pentax P80

In this write-up, we will be comparing the Nikon L19 and Pentax P80, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by rivals Nikon and Pentax. There is a sizable difference between the sensor resolutions of the L19 (8MP) and P80 (12MP) and the L19 (1/2.5") and P80 (1/2.3") possess different sensor size.

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The L19 was introduced 6 months before the P80 and they are of a similar age. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the L19 grades versus the P80 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix L19 & Pentax Optio P80. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon L19 Gallery & Pentax P80 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you will have to consider its weight and proportions. The Nikon L19 offers physical measurements of 97mm x 61mm x 29mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.1") having a weight of 130 grams (0.29 lbs) and the Pentax P80 has measurements of 102mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.0") with a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Compare the Nikon L19 and Pentax P80 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are employing during that time. Underneath is the front view dimensions comparison of the L19 compared to the P80.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the L19 and P80 is 94 and 95 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to picture the difference between sensor sizes just by reading through specs. The pic here may provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the L19 and P80.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The L19 using its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower depth of field harder and the Pentax P80 will resolve more detail using its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop photographs a little more aggressively.