Nikon S9500 vs Pentax XG-1

On this page, we are reviewing the Nikon S9500 vs Pentax XG-1, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Nikon and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the S9500 (18MP) and the XG-1 (16MP) is fairly close and both cameras have the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The S9500 was introduced 17 months prior to the XG-1 making them a generation apart from each other. Both the cameras have different body design with the Nikon S9500 being a Compact camera and the Pentax XG-1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple highlight of how the S9500 matches up vs the XG-1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix S9500 & Pentax XG-1. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon S9500 Gallery & Pentax XG-1 Gallery.

In case you're going to carry your camera regularly, you are going to need to consider its weight and size. The Nikon S9500 comes with outside measurements of 110mm x 60mm x 31mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 205 grams (0.45 lbs) while the Pentax XG-1 has specifications of 119mm x 89mm x 98mm (4.7" x 3.5" x 3.9") with a weight of 567 grams (1.25 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon S9500 vs Pentax XG-1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you choose at the time. The following is a front view physical size comparison of the S9500 versus the XG-1.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the S9500 and XG-1 is 92 and 66 respectively.

Generally, it can be tough to visualise the gap in sensor sizing just by looking through technical specs. The graphic below may offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the S9500 and XG-1.

As you have seen, both of the cameras have the same sensor dimensions but not the same MP. You can anticipate the Nikon S9500 to result in more detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop photos a bit more aggressively. The older S9500 will be behind with regard to sensor technology.