Pentax K100D vs Sony HX300

Following is a comprehensive comparison of the Pentax K100D vs Sony HX300, former is a Entry-Level DSLR while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Pentax and Sony. There exists a sizable gap between the resolutions of the K100D (6MP) and HX300 (20MP) and the K100D (APS-C) and HX300 (1/2.3") provide different sensor size.

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The K100D was introduced 7 years earlier than the HX300 which is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Pentax K100D being a Compact SLR camera and the Sony HX300 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before going right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a short summary of how the K100D grades versus the HX300 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax K100D & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX300. The whole galleries are viewable at Pentax K100D Gallery & Sony HX300 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry around your camera, you will have to consider its weight and proportions. The Pentax K100D features outer dimensions of 129mm x 93mm x 70mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 2.8") having a weight of 660 grams (1.46 lbs) while the Sony HX300 has measurements of 130mm x 103mm x 93mm (5.1" x 4.1" x 3.7") along with a weight of 623 grams (1.37 lbs).

Check out the Pentax K100D vs Sony HX300 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you use at the time. Underneath is a front view over all size comparison of the K100D and the HX300.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the K100D and HX300 is 64 and 63 respectively.

Normally, it is very difficult to visualize the difference between sensor sizes simply by reviewing a spec sheet. The image here might provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the K100D and HX300.

As you can see, each of these cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The K100D using its bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Sony HX300 will offer extra detail using its extra 14MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The more aged K100D is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.