Pentax MX-1 vs Pentax W80

Below is a in-depth analysis of the Pentax MX-1 vs Pentax W80, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras and they are both manufactured by Pentax. The sensor resolution of the MX-1 (12MP) and the W80 (12MP) is relatively well matched but the MX-1 (1/1.7") and W80 (1/2.3") posses totally different sensor size.

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The MX-1 was launched 4 years later than the W80 and that is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before going into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple summation of how the MX-1 scores vs the W80 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax MX-1 & Pentax Optio W80. The complete galleries are available at Pentax MX-1 Gallery & Pentax W80 Gallery.

In case you're looking to lug around your camera frequently, you'll have to take into account its weight and volume. The Pentax MX-1 features outside dimensions of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") having a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs) and the Pentax W80 has sizing of 100mm x 56mm x 25mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") having a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs).

Examine the Pentax MX-1 vs Pentax W80 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you select during that time. The following is a front view dimensions comparison of the MX-1 and the W80.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the MX-1 and W80 is 84 and 94 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be hard to see the gap between sensor measurements only by reading through specifications. The photograph here might give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the MX-1 and W80.

To sum up, each of the cameras have the same megapixel count albeit not the same sensor measurements. The MX-1 comes with the bigger sensor which is going to make achieving shallow DOF easier. The newer MX-1 is going to have an edge in sensor tech.