Pentax RZ18 vs Sony HX80

Below is a in-depth overview of the Pentax RZ18 versus Sony HX80, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by competitors Pentax and Sony. The image resolution of the RZ18 (16MP) and the HX80 (18MP) is very similar and both cameras have the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The RZ18 was introduced 5 years earlier than the HX80 and that is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting straight to a complete comparison, here is a concise overview of how the RZ18 grades vs the HX80 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax Optio RZ18 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX80. The whole galleries are available at Pentax RZ18 Gallery and Sony HX80 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to lug around your camera, you are going to need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Pentax RZ18 has outside dimensions of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs) whilst the Sony HX80 has measurements of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") and a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs).

Analyze the Pentax RZ18 versus Sony HX80 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have during that time. Underneath is a front view proportions comparison of the RZ18 against the HX80.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the RZ18 and HX80 is 92 and 91 respectively.

Usually, it is very hard to see the contrast between sensor measurements only by going over a spec sheet. The graphic here will help give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the RZ18 and HX80.

As you can see, the two cameras have the same sensor dimensions but not the same MP. You should expect to see the Sony HX80 to deliver extra detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop photos a bit more aggressively. The older RZ18 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.