Olympus SZ-12 vs Pentax X-5

Lets look a bit more closely at the Olympus SZ-12 versus Pentax X-5, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the X-5 (16MP) is pretty well matched and they possess the exact same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was revealed 7 months prior to the X-5 which means that they are of a similar generation. The two cameras come with different body type with the Olympus SZ-12 being a Compact camera and the Pentax X-5 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before diving in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the SZ-12 scores against the X-5 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-12 and Pentax X-5. The full galleries are available at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery and Pentax X-5 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry around your camera often, you will need to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-12 enjoys physical dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Pentax X-5 has measurements of 119mm x 86mm x 107mm (4.7" x 3.4" x 4.2") accompanied by a weight of 595 grams (1.31 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SZ-12 versus Pentax X-5 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are working with at that moment. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the SZ-12 versus the X-5.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-12 and X-5 is 89 and 65 respectively.

Often, its hard to envision the difference between sensor sizes only by looking at specs. The picture below will help offer you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-12 and X-5.

As you can plainly see, the 2 cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements albeit not the same megapixels. You should expect the Pentax X-5 to resolve extra detail because of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The more aged SZ-12 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.