Nikon S32 vs Pentax H90

On this page, we are analyzing the Nikon S32 and Pentax H90, one being a Waterproof and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Nikon and Pentax. The resolution of the S32 (13MP) and the H90 (12MP) is fairly similar but the S32 (1/3") and H90 (1/2.3") offer different sensor dimensions.

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The S32 was revealed 4 years later than the H90 and that is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving straight to a complete comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the S32 scores vs the H90 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix S32 and Pentax Optio H90. The full galleries are available at Nikon S32 Gallery and Pentax H90 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to lug around your camera, you are going to need to think about its weight and dimensions. The Nikon S32 enjoys 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 H90 has dimensions of 101mm x 65mm x 28mm (4.0" x 2.6" x 1.1") along with a weight of 153 grams (0.34 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon S32 and Pentax H90 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have chosen during that time. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the S32 against the H90.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the S32 and H90 is 90 and 93 respectively.

Normally, it can be difficult to visualize the gap between sensor measurements merely by reading specs. The photograph underneath should offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the S32 and H90.

All in all, the two cameras have different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The S32 using its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF harder and the Nikon S32 will offer extra detail because of its extra 1 Megapixels. Greater resolution will help you crop photos a bit more aggressively. The younger S32 should have an edge in sensor innovation.