Pentax MX-1 vs Sony HX300

In this write-up, we will be comparing the Pentax MX-1 versus Sony HX300, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Pentax and Sony. There exists a significant gap between the sensor resolutions of the MX-1 (12MP) and HX300 (20MP) and the MX-1 (1/1.7") and HX300 (1/2.3") possess totally different sensor sizing.

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The MX-1 was announced 5 months later than the HX300 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras offer different body type with the Pentax MX-1 being a Compact camera and the Sony HX300 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before getting straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the MX-1 matches up vs the HX300 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax MX-1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX300. The whole galleries are provided at Pentax MX-1 Gallery and Sony HX300 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and proportions. The Pentax MX-1 provides physical measurements of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") and a weight of 391 grams (0.86 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).

See the Pentax MX-1 versus Sony HX300 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you use at the time. Here is the front view measurements comparison of the MX-1 and the HX300.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the MX-1 and HX300 is 84 and 63 respectively.

Typically, it's difficult to envision the gap between sensor sizing just by checking technical specs. The graphic here will help offer you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the MX-1 and HX300.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The MX-1 with its bigger sensor will make achieving bokeh less difficult and the Sony HX300 will resolve more detail with its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots far more aggressively.