Pentax MX-1 vs Sony RX100

Below, we are comparing the Pentax MX-1 versus Sony RX100, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Large Sensor Compact by brands Pentax and Sony. There is a large difference among the image resolutions of the MX-1 (12MP) and RX100 (20MP) and the MX-1 (1/1.7") and RX100 (1") feature different sensor size.

Samsung Releases Faster Versions of EVO MicroSD Cards

The MX-1 was manufactured 11 months later than the RX100 so they are both of a similar age. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Pentax MX-1 being a Compact camera and the Sony RX100 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before going in to a detailed comparison, below is a quick overview of how the MX-1 matches up vs the RX100 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax MX-1 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100. The entire galleries are provided at Pentax MX-1 Gallery & Sony RX100 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera, you're going to have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Pentax MX-1 provides exterior measurements of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") with a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs) whilst the Sony RX100 has dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs).

Contrast the Pentax MX-1 versus Sony RX100 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have chosen at that time. Underneath is the front view dimension comparison of the MX-1 versus the RX100.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the MX-1 and RX100 is 84 and 91 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to picture the gap in sensor sizing simply by going through a spec sheet. The visual below might offer you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the MX-1 and RX100.

As you can see, each of the cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The MX-1 due to its smaller sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF more challenging and the Sony RX100 will produce greater detail due to its extra 8MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The newer MX-1 should have a benefit in sensor innovation.