Panasonic ZS40 vs Pentax MX-1

Below, we will be reviewing the Panasonic ZS40 and Pentax MX-1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There exists a sizable gap among the image resolutions of the ZS40 (18MP) and MX-1 (12MP) and the ZS40 (1/2.3") and MX-1 (1/1.7") feature totally different sensor sizing.

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The ZS40 was unveiled 7 months after the MX-1 so they are of a similar age. Each of the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before going straight into a detailed comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the ZS40 matches up vs the MX-1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40 & Pentax MX-1. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS40 Gallery & Pentax MX-1 Gallery.

If you are aiming to travel with your camera, you have to consider its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS40 enjoys outside dimensions of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs) whilst the Pentax MX-1 has proportions of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") along with a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic ZS40 and Pentax MX-1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the ZS40 compared to the MX-1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZS40 and MX-1 is 90 and 84 respectively.

Typically, it's difficult to visualise the difference in sensor dimensions merely by seeing specifications. The pic underneath should give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the ZS40 and MX-1.

To sum up, the 2 cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The ZS40 with its smaller sensor will make shooting shallow DOF more challenging and the Panasonic ZS40 will show more detail having an extra 6MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots much more aggressively. The younger ZS40 will have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.