Pentax MX-1 vs Sony S980

Let's look more closely at the Pentax MX-1 vs Sony S980, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by rivals Pentax and Sony. The resolution of the MX-1 (12MP) and the S980 (12MP) is pretty comparable but the MX-1 (1/1.7") and S980 (1/2.3") provide totally different sensor measurements.

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The MX-1 was released 4 years later than the S980 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before going right into a in-depth comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the MX-1 matches up against the S980 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax MX-1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The complete galleries are viewable at Pentax MX-1 Gallery and Sony S980 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry your camera frequently, you will need to consider its weight and proportions. The Pentax MX-1 has got outside measurements of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") with a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs) and the Sony S980 has measurements of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Examine the Pentax MX-1 vs Sony S980 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are utilizing at the time. Following is a front view measurement comparison of the MX-1 vs the S980.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the MX-1 and S980 is 84 and 94 respectively.

Often, it is hard to envision the difference in sensor sizing simply by seeing technical specs. The graphic below may offer you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the MX-1 and S980.

As you can tell, both the cameras feature the identical MP albeit not the same sensor sizing. The MX-1 contains the bigger sensor which will make obtaining shallow DOF less difficult. The more recent MX-1 will have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.