Olympus SH-1 vs Pentax X-5

Let's look a little more in depth at the Olympus SH-1 and Pentax X-5, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by brands Olympus and Pentax. The resolution of the SH-1 (16MP) and the X-5 (16MP) is fairly comparable and they feature the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SH-1 was released 20 months after the X-5 making the cameras a generation away from one another. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SH-1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax X-5 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go through a in depth comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the SH-1 scores against the X-5 for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus SH-1 and Pentax X-5. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus SH-1 Gallery and Pentax X-5 Gallery.

If you are looking to travel with your camera frequently, you will want to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SH-1 enjoys outside measurements of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) while the Pentax X-5 has dimensions of 119mm x 86mm x 107mm (4.7" x 3.4" x 4.2") having a weight of 595 grams (1.31 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus SH-1 and Pentax X-5 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the SH-1 and the X-5.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SH-1 and X-5 is 88 and 65 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to visualise the difference in sensor dimensions simply by checking out specifications. The image here will help give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the SH-1 and X-5.

To sum up, the 2 cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the same megapixels so you should expect comparable quality of pictures though you need to factor the release date of the cameras into account. The younger SH-1 will have an edge in sensor innovation.