Nikon S32 vs Pentax MX-1

Let's look more closely at the Nikon S32 and Pentax MX-1, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Nikon and Pentax. The resolution of the S32 (13MP) and the MX-1 (12MP) is pretty comparable but the S32 (1/3") and MX-1 (1/1.7") enjoy totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The S32 was announced 8 months later than the MX-1 which means that they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting straight into a in depth comparison, below is a quick view of how the S32 grades vs the MX-1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix S32 and Pentax MX-1. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon S32 Gallery and Pentax MX-1 Gallery.

If you're going to lug around your camera, you have to take into account its weight and volume. The Nikon S32 has got external measurements of 108mm x 66mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.6") along with a weight of 175 grams (0.39 lbs) whilst the Pentax MX-1 has sizing of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") having a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon S32 and Pentax MX-1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are working with at the time. Following is the front view measurement comparison of the S32 and the MX-1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the S32 and MX-1 is 90 and 84 respectively.

Generally, it can be tough to visualise the gap in sensor measurements purely by going through specs. The visual here will help offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the S32 and MX-1.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The S32 having a smaller sensor will make achieving shallower DOF harder and the Nikon S32 will show greater detail with its extra 1MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The younger S32 is going to have an edge in sensor technology.