Pentax RZ18 vs Sony HX20V

In this write-up, we are looking at the Pentax RZ18 and Sony HX20V, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by competitors Pentax and Sony. The resolution of the RZ18 (16MP) and the HX20V (18MP) is very well matched and they feature the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The RZ18 was launched 10 months prior to the HX20V which means that they are of a similar age. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving through a step-by-step comparison, below is a concise view of how the RZ18 scores against the HX20V in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax Optio RZ18 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V. The complete galleries are available at Pentax RZ18 Gallery & Sony HX20V Gallery.

For those who are going to carry around your camera often, you are going to need to take into account its weight and size. The Pentax RZ18 offers outside measurements of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs) and the Sony HX20V has specifications of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") and a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

Contrast the Pentax RZ18 and Sony HX20V in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you select at the time. The following is the front view overall size comparison of the RZ18 and the HX20V.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the RZ18 and HX20V is 92 and 90 respectively.

Usually, it's tough to see the difference between sensor sizes just by checking technical specs. The pic underneath will help offer you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the RZ18 and HX20V.

As you can tell, each of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same MP. You can expect to see the Sony HX20V to resolve extra detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The more aged RZ18 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.