Nikon L20 vs Pentax RS1500

In this article, we will be reviewing the Nikon L20 vs Pentax RS1500, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by companies Nikon and Pentax. There is a crucial difference among the image resolutions of the L20 (10MP) and RS1500 (14MP) but they possess the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The L20 was manufactured 3 years earlier than the RS1500 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a short highlight of how the L20 matches up vs the RS1500 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix L20 and Pentax Optio RS1500. The entire galleries are available at Nikon L20 Gallery and Pentax RS1500 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry your camera regularly, you will need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Nikon L20 provides outer measurements of 97mm x 61mm x 29mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.1") having a weight of 135 grams (0.30 lbs) and the Pentax RS1500 has dimensions of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Check the Nikon L20 vs Pentax RS1500 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you select during that time. Following is the front view size comparison of the L20 against the RS1500.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the L20 and RS1500 is 94 and 93 respectively.

Usually, it is tough to see the contrast in sensor sizing merely by researching specifications. The visual underneath might give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the L20 and RS1500.

Plainly, both cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same resolution. You should expect the Pentax RS1500 to render extra detail due to its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The older L20 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.