Pentax MX-1 vs Sony W290

Following is a in-depth assessment of the Pentax MX-1 and Sony W290, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by competitors Pentax and Sony. The resolution of the MX-1 (12MP) and the W290 (12MP) is fairly close but the MX-1 (1/1.7") and W290 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor sizing.

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The MX-1 was brought out 4 years after the W290 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a short view of how the MX-1 grades against the W290 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Pentax MX-1 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W290. The entire galleries are viewable at Pentax MX-1 Gallery & Sony W290 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry around your camera, you will have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Pentax MX-1 enjoys 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 W290 has measurements of 98mm x 57mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Take a look at the Pentax MX-1 and Sony W290 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are utilising during that time. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the MX-1 against the W290.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the MX-1 and W290 is 84 and 94 respectively.

Quite often, it is very tough to see the difference in sensor sizes merely by looking through a spec sheet. The image underneath will help provide you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the MX-1 and W290.

Clearly, the 2 cameras have got the exact same megapixel count but not the same sensor sizes. The MX-1 uses the larger sensor which should make obtaining shallow depth of field simpler. The fresher MX-1 is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.