Pentax MX-1 vs Pentax RZ18

Here, we are reviewing the Pentax MX-1 vs Pentax RZ18, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both produced by Pentax. There is a big difference among the image resolutions of the MX-1 (12MP) and RZ18 (16MP) and the MX-1 (1/1.7") and RZ18 (1/2.3") posses totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The MX-1 was announced 22 months after the RZ18 making them a generation away from each other. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before delving right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple summary of how the MX-1 matches up vs the RZ18 for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Pentax MX-1 and Pentax Optio RZ18. The whole galleries are provided at Pentax MX-1 Gallery and Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to travel with your camera often, you have to think about its weight and volume. The Pentax MX-1 comes with outside measurements of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") along with a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs) while the Pentax RZ18 has sizing of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Look at the Pentax MX-1 vs Pentax RZ18 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you choose at the time. Underneath is a front view sizing comparison of the MX-1 against the RZ18.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the MX-1 and RZ18 is 84 and 92 respectively.

Generally, its tough to visualise the difference in sensor dimensions purely by checking out specifications. The image below will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the MX-1 and RZ18.

Plainly, the two cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The MX-1 with its larger sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field simpler and the Pentax RZ18 will provide greater detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop pics way more aggressively. The younger MX-1 is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.