Nikon S9100 vs Pentax RS1500

In this write-up, we are comparing the Nikon S9100 vs Pentax RS1500, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Nikon and Pentax. The image resolution of the S9100 (12MP) and the RS1500 (14MP) is very well matched and they feature the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The S9100 was unveiled 5 months after the RS1500 which means that they are of a similar generation. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving straight into a detailed comparison, below is a concise overview of how the S9100 grades versus the RS1500 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix S9100 and Pentax Optio RS1500. The full galleries are provided at Nikon S9100 Gallery and Pentax RS1500 Gallery.

If you're going to carry around your camera, you'll have to factor its weight and size. The Nikon S9100 has outside measurements of 105mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs) while the Pentax RS1500 has specifications of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon S9100 vs Pentax RS1500 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have attached at the time. The following is the front view size comparison of the S9100 compared to the RS1500.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the S9100 and RS1500 is 91 and 93 respectively.

Usually, it is very hard to picture the contrast between sensor sizes just by looking at specs. The pic below might offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the S9100 and RS1500.

All in all, the two cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but different megapixels. You should expect to see the Pentax RS1500 to give you extra detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop photos far more aggressively.