Olympus SH-1 vs Pentax X90

In this article, we will be looking at the Olympus SH-1 versus Pentax X90, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Olympus and Pentax. There exists a sizable gap among the resolutions of the SH-1 (16MP) and X90 (12MP) but they come with the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SH-1 was brought out 3 years later than the X90 and that is a fairly significant difference as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SH-1 being a Compact camera and the Pentax X90 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before going straight into a full comparison, below is a short summation of how the SH-1 matches up vs the X90 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus SH-1 & Pentax X90. The entire galleries are available at Olympus SH-1 Gallery & Pentax X90 Gallery.

If you are aiming to lug around your camera, you will have to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus SH-1 has outer dimensions of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") and a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) whilst the Pentax X90 has proportions of 111mm x 85mm x 110mm (4.4" x 3.3" x 4.3") and a weight of 428 grams (0.94 lbs).

Check the Olympus SH-1 versus Pentax X90 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are utilising at that time. Below is the front view scale comparison of the SH-1 versus the X90.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SH-1 and X90 is 88 and 69 respectively.

Sometimes, its hard to visualise the contrast in sensor measurements only by seeing technical specs. The graphic here may provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the SH-1 and X90.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same resolution. You can count on the Olympus SH-1 to show greater detail having its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will let you crop shots a little more aggressively. The more recent SH-1 is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.