Pentax S1 vs Sony HX20V

Here, we are matching up the Pentax S1 and Sony HX20V, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Pentax and Sony. There exists a large gap between the resolutions of the S1 (14MP) and HX20V (18MP) but both cameras boast the identical sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The S1 was brought out 16 months before the HX20V making them a generation away from one another. Both the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting straight to a thorough comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the S1 grades against the HX20V in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax Optio S1 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V. The entire galleries are available at Pentax S1 Gallery & Sony HX20V Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry around your camera regularly, you need to think about its weight and volume. The Pentax S1 provides outer dimensions of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Sony HX20V has sizing of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") along with a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

Take a look at the Pentax S1 and Sony HX20V in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have at that time. Underneath is a front view overall size comparison of the S1 versus the HX20V.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S1 and HX20V is 93 and 90 respectively.

Normally, it is very difficult to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes simply by checking a spec sheet. The image below will help give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the S1 and HX20V.

Clearly, both of the cameras feature the identical sensor size but different MP. You can expect to see the Sony HX20V to give more detail having its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop photos way more aggressively. The more aged S1 is going to be behind in sensor tech.