Pentax MX-1 vs Sony NEX-5

Its time to take a closer look at the Pentax MX-1 vs Sony NEX-5, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Pentax and Sony. The image resolution of the MX-1 (12MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is pretty comparable but the MX-1 (1/1.7") and NEX-5 (APS-C) posses totally different sensor dimensions.

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The MX-1 was announced 3 years later than the NEX-5 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Pentax MX-1 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go right into a complete comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the MX-1 matches up vs the NEX-5 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax MX-1 and Sony Alpha NEX-5. The whole galleries are viewable at Pentax MX-1 Gallery and Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry your camera regularly, you'll have to factor its weight and proportions. The Pentax MX-1 offers outer measurements of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") and a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs) and the Sony NEX-5 has measurements of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Contrast the Pentax MX-1 vs Sony NEX-5 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are utilising during that time. Following is a front view over all size comparison of the MX-1 and the NEX-5.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the MX-1 and NEX-5 is 84 and 89 respectively.

Usually, its tough to see the difference in sensor sizing merely by checking out specs. The photograph below will offer you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the MX-1 and NEX-5.

All in all, the two cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The MX-1 having a smaller sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field more difficult and the Sony NEX-5 will provide extra detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop shots more aggressively. The more recent MX-1 will have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.