Nikon S9500 vs Pentax X90

Below, we will be evaluating the Nikon S9500 and Pentax X90, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Nikon and Pentax. There is a large difference among the sensor resolutions of the S9500 (18MP) and X90 (12MP) but they enjoy the exact same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The S9500 was announced 2 years after the X90 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Nikon S9500 being a Compact camera and the Pentax X90 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick summation of how the S9500 matches up against the X90 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix S9500 & Pentax X90. The whole galleries are available at Nikon S9500 Gallery & Pentax X90 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry around your camera regularly, you have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Nikon S9500 comes with outside dimensions of 110mm x 60mm x 31mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 205 grams (0.45 lbs) and the Pentax X90 has dimensions of 111mm x 85mm x 110mm (4.4" x 3.3" x 4.3") with a weight of 428 grams (0.94 lbs).

Examine the Nikon S9500 and Pentax X90 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are utilising at that time. Following is the front view size comparison of the S9500 against the X90.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the S9500 and X90 is 92 and 69 respectively.

Usually, it can be hard to imagine the difference in sensor sizes just by viewing technical specs. The image underneath might provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the S9500 and X90.

As you have seen, both of these cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements albeit different MP. You can expect the Nikon S9500 to render more detail with its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop photographs much more aggressively. The newer S9500 should have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.