Nikon P310 vs Pentax MX-1

Here, we will be evaluating the Nikon P310 vs Pentax MX-1, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by companies Nikon and Pentax. There is a sizable difference among the image resolutions of the P310 (16MP) and MX-1 (12MP) and the P310 (1/2.3") and MX-1 (1/1.7") boast different sensor size.

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The P310 was introduced 12 months prior to the MX-1 and they are of a similar age. Both the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before diving into a complete comparison, here is a simple summation of how the P310 scores vs the MX-1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Coolpix P310 & Pentax MX-1. The whole galleries are available at Nikon P310 Gallery & Pentax MX-1 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to travel with your camera, you should consider its weight and size. The Nikon P310 provides physical dimensions of 103mm x 58mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") along with a weight of 194 grams (0.43 lbs) whilst the Pentax MX-1 has specifications of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") accompanied by a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon P310 vs Pentax MX-1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have attached during that time. Underneath is a front view measurement comparison of the P310 vs the MX-1.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the P310 and MX-1 is 92 and 84 respectively.

Often, it is very tough to visualize the gap in sensor dimensions just by viewing technical specs. The pic below will offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the P310 and MX-1.

As you have seen, both the cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The P310 having a smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF more challenging and the Nikon P310 will provide you with greater detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will let you crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The more aged P310 will be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.