Panasonic FX48 vs Pentax MX-1

Following is a extended review of the Panasonic FX48 and Pentax MX-1, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the FX48 (12MP) and the MX-1 (12MP) is relatively similar but the FX48 (1/2.3") and MX-1 (1/1.7") enjoy totally different sensor sizes.

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The FX48 was manufactured 5 years prior to the MX-1 which is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving in to a detailed comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the FX48 scores vs the MX-1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX48 & Pentax MX-1. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic FX48 Gallery & Pentax MX-1 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry around your camera regularly, you should think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic FX48 comes with physical dimensions of 95mm x 53mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 150 grams (0.33 lbs) and the Pentax MX-1 has proportions of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") and a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic FX48 and Pentax MX-1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you use at the time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the FX48 compared to the MX-1.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the FX48 and MX-1 is 95 and 84 respectively.

Generally, its hard to see the gap between sensor sizes purely by going over technical specs. The image below will help provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the FX48 and MX-1.

As you can tell, both cameras offer the same exact MP albeit not the same sensor sizes. The FX48 uses the tinier sensor which is going to make achieving shallower depth of field more difficult. The more aged FX48 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.