Olympus XZ-1 vs Pentax E90

On this page, we will be contrasting the Olympus XZ-1 and Pentax E90, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by rivals Olympus and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the XZ-1 (10MP) and the E90 (10MP) is pretty close but the XZ-1 (1/1.63") and E90 (1/2.3") offer different sensor measurements.

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The XZ-1 was introduced 13 months later than the E90 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple view of how the XZ-1 grades versus the E90 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus XZ-1 and Pentax Optio E90. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus XZ-1 Gallery and Pentax E90 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry your camera regularly, you are going to need to take into account its weight and size. The Olympus XZ-1 offers outer dimensions of 111mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.7") along with a weight of 275 grams (0.61 lbs) whilst the Pentax E90 has specifications of 102mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.0") accompanied by a weight of 145 grams (0.32 lbs).

Check out the Olympus XZ-1 and Pentax E90 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are utilising during that time. Underneath is a front view measurements comparison of the XZ-1 compared to the E90.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the XZ-1 and E90 is 88 and 94 respectively.

In many cases, it is very tough to visualize the contrast in sensor sizing purely by researching a spec sheet. The visual below will help provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the XZ-1 and E90.

As you can see, each of the cameras provide the same MP albeit different sensor sizing. The XZ-1 includes the bigger sensor which is going to make achieving shallow depth of field easier. The more recent XZ-1 provides an advantage in sensor technology.