Olympus VH-515 vs Pentax MX-1

Its time to examine more in depth at the Olympus VH-515 and Pentax MX-1, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by competitors Olympus and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the VH-515 (12MP) and the MX-1 (12MP) is very close but the VH-515 (1/2.3") and MX-1 (1/1.7") come with different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The VH-515 was introduced 10 months earlier than the MX-1 and they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving through a more detailed comparison, below is a quick overview of how the VH-515 grades against the MX-1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus VH-515 and Pentax MX-1. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus VH-515 Gallery and Pentax MX-1 Gallery.

If you're going to lug around your camera regularly, you will have to factor its weight and size. The Olympus VH-515 enjoys outside measurements of 102mm x 60mm x 21mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 152 grams (0.34 lbs) and the Pentax MX-1 has specifications of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") along with a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus VH-515 and Pentax MX-1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you use at that time. Following is the front view proportions comparison of the VH-515 and the MX-1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the VH-515 and MX-1 is 95 and 84 respectively.

Quite often, it can be difficult to picture the difference in sensor measurements simply by researching technical specs. The graphic underneath should provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the VH-515 and MX-1.

As you have seen, each of the cameras enjoy the same exact megapixels but different sensor measurements. The VH-515 contains the smaller sensor which will make achieving shallow depth of field tougher. The older VH-515 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.