Pentax MX-1 vs Sony HX9V

Let's take a closer look at the Pentax MX-1 and Sony HX9V, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Pentax and Sony. There is a sizeable difference among the resolutions of the MX-1 (12MP) and HX9V (16MP) and the MX-1 (1/1.7") and HX9V (1/2.3") provide different sensor size.

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The MX-1 was announced 24 months later than the HX9V making them a generation apart from each other. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving into a comprehensive comparison, here is a concise summary of how the MX-1 matches up versus the HX9V in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Pentax MX-1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX9V. The whole galleries are available at Pentax MX-1 Gallery and Sony HX9V Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry your camera regularly, you'll need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Pentax MX-1 comes with exterior dimensions of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") accompanied by a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs) whilst the Sony HX9V has measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs).

Check the Pentax MX-1 and Sony HX9V in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are utilising during that time. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the MX-1 versus the HX9V.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the MX-1 and HX9V is 84 and 91 respectively.

Often, it's difficult to imagine the contrast in sensor sizing only by researching a spec sheet. The photograph here will help offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the MX-1 and HX9V.

As you can see, both cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The MX-1 having a larger sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF less difficult and the Sony HX9V will render extra detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop photos a bit more aggressively. The more recent MX-1 should have an advantage with regard to sensor technology.