Olympus VG-160 vs Pentax X-5

On this page, we will be analyzing the Olympus VG-160 and Pentax X-5, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Olympus and Pentax. The image resolution of the VG-160 (14MP) and the X-5 (16MP) is pretty close and both cameras have the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The VG-160 was announced 7 months before the X-5 so they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus VG-160 being a Compact camera and the Pentax X-5 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before getting right into a thorough comparison, here is a brief overview of how the VG-160 matches up vs the X-5 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus VG-160 and Pentax X-5. The whole galleries are available at Olympus VG-160 Gallery and Pentax X-5 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and measurements. The Olympus VG-160 features outside measurements of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") having a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) whilst the Pentax X-5 has proportions of 119mm x 86mm x 107mm (4.7" x 3.4" x 4.2") and a weight of 595 grams (1.31 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus VG-160 and Pentax X-5 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you choose at the time. Here is a front view measurements comparison of the VG-160 and the X-5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the VG-160 and X-5 is 96 and 65 respectively.

Generally, it's tough to visualize the gap in sensor sizing merely by researching specs. The photograph below may provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the VG-160 and X-5.

As you can plainly see, both cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different MP. You should expect the Pentax X-5 to result in extra detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots more aggressively. The older VG-160 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.