Olympus 7040 vs Pentax MX-1

Following is a in-depth comparison of the Olympus 7040 versus Pentax MX-1, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by competitors Olympus and Pentax. The resolution of the 7040 (14MP) and the MX-1 (12MP) is fairly well matched but the 7040 (1/2.3") and MX-1 (1/1.7") come with totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The 7040 was announced 4 years prior to the MX-1 which is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a short summation of how the 7040 matches up versus the MX-1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus 7040 and Pentax MX-1. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus 7040 Gallery and Pentax MX-1 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry around your camera, you're going to have to factor its weight and size. The Olympus 7040 comes with exterior measurements of 95mm x 56mm x 26mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 1.0") along with a weight of 144 grams (0.32 lbs) and the Pentax MX-1 has specifications of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") having a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs).

Compare the Olympus 7040 versus Pentax MX-1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have attached at the time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the 7040 versus the MX-1.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the 7040 and MX-1 is 95 and 84 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be difficult to envision the difference between sensor sizes simply by checking technical specs. The picture below will help give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the 7040 and MX-1.

As you have seen, both the cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The 7040 with its tinier sensor will make getting bokeh tougher and the Olympus 7040 will give you greater detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop images a little more aggressively. The more aged 7040 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor technology.