Panasonic LX5 vs Pentax MX-1

Its time to take a deeper look at the Panasonic LX5 vs Pentax MX-1, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by companies Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the LX5 (10MP) and the MX-1 (12MP) is pretty well matched but the LX5 (1/1.63") and MX-1 (1/1.7") use totally different sensor sizing.

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The LX5 was released 18 months earlier than the MX-1 which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a detailed comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the LX5 matches up versus the MX-1 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5 and Pentax MX-1. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic LX5 Gallery and Pentax MX-1 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic LX5 features physical dimensions of 110mm x 65mm x 43mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.7") and a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) and the Pentax MX-1 has dimensions of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") having a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic LX5 vs Pentax MX-1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have chosen at the time. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the LX5 versus the MX-1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the LX5 and MX-1 is 88 and 84 respectively.

Oftentimes, its tough to envision the contrast between sensor sizes purely by checking specs. The picture underneath may give you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the LX5 and MX-1.

All in all, both of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The LX5 due to its bigger sensor will make shooting shallower DOF easier and the Pentax MX-1 will resolve more detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures a little more aggressively. The more aged LX5 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.