Pentax MX-1 vs Sony G3

Here, we will be comparing the Pentax MX-1 and Sony G3, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by competitors Pentax and Sony. The sensor resolution of the MX-1 (12MP) and the G3 (10MP) is pretty well matched but the MX-1 (1/1.7") and G3 (1/2.3") have different sensor sizes.

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The MX-1 was unveiled 4 years after the G3 which is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting right into a more detailed comparison, here is a short highlight of how the MX-1 matches up versus the G3 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax MX-1 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-G3. The full galleries are available at Pentax MX-1 Gallery & Sony G3 Gallery.

If you are intending to travel with your camera, you need to take into account its weight and size. The Pentax MX-1 comes with exterior measurements of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") accompanied by a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs) and the Sony G3 has specifications of 97mm x 59mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.3" x 0.9") along with a weight of 185 grams (0.41 lbs).

Examine the Pentax MX-1 and Sony G3 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have during that time. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the MX-1 vs the G3.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the MX-1 and G3 is 84 and 94 respectively.

Generally, it can be difficult to visualize the difference between sensor dimensions purely by reading through specifications. The picture below may give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the MX-1 and G3.

To sum up, both the cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The MX-1 using its bigger sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF easier and the Pentax MX-1 will give you greater detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots way more aggressively. The more recent MX-1 provides a benefit with regard to sensor tech.