Pentax P80 vs Sony HX5

Its time to look closer at the Pentax P80 versus Sony HX5, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by brands Pentax and Sony. The resolution of the P80 (12MP) and the HX5 (10MP) is very comparable but the P80 (1/2.3") and HX5 (1/2.4") have different sensor dimensions.

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The P80 was launched 10 months prior to the HX5 so they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving right into a thorough comparison, here is a simple summation of how the P80 scores vs the HX5 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax Optio P80 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5. The complete galleries are available at Pentax P80 Gallery and Sony HX5 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera often, you will have to think about its weight and volume. The Pentax P80 has outside measurements of 102mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.0") accompanied by a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) whilst the Sony HX5 has sizing of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs).

Compare the Pentax P80 versus Sony HX5 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you select at that moment. Underneath is a front view measurement comparison of the P80 vs the HX5.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the P80 and HX5 is 95 and 92 respectively.

Typically, it can be tough to visualize the difference in sensor sizing only by checking out specifications. The graphic underneath will give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the P80 and HX5.

To sum up, each of the cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The P80 featuring a larger sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field simpler and the Pentax P80 will provide extra detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will help you crop images a bit more aggressively. The older P80 will be behind with regard to sensor technology.