Panasonic ZS50 vs Pentax MX-1

Following is a extended analysis of the Panasonic ZS50 versus Pentax MX-1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the ZS50 (12MP) and the MX-1 (12MP) is relatively well matched but the ZS50 (1/2.3") and MX-1 (1/1.7") boast totally different sensor measurements.

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The ZS50 was launched 19 months after the MX-1 which makes them a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before diving straight to a thorough comparison, here is a simple summary of how the ZS50 scores vs the MX-1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50 & Pentax MX-1. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS50 Gallery & Pentax MX-1 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry around your camera frequently, you'll have to think about its weight and proportions. The Panasonic ZS50 has got exterior measurements of 111mm x 65mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.3") and a weight of 243 grams (0.54 lbs) and the Pentax MX-1 has measurements of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") having a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic ZS50 versus Pentax MX-1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are employing at the time. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the ZS50 and the MX-1.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the ZS50 and MX-1 is 90 and 84 respectively.

Often, it is tough to visualise the gap between sensor sizes simply by checking specs. The pic below will give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS50 and MX-1.

As you can plainly see, the 2 cameras feature the identical resolution albeit not the same sensor sizes. The ZS50 features the tinier sensor which should make obtaining shallower DOF tougher. The fresher ZS50 will have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.