Pentax S1 vs Sony WX500

Its time to look a little more closely at the Pentax S1 vs Sony WX500, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Pentax and Sony. There exists a sizeable gap between the image resolutions of the S1 (14MP) and WX500 (18MP) but both cameras have the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The S1 was introduced 5 years earlier than the WX500 which is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise view of how the S1 scores vs the WX500 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax Optio S1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500. The whole galleries are available at Pentax S1 Gallery and Sony WX500 Gallery.

If you're looking to travel with your camera, you will have to factor its weight and proportions. The Pentax S1 has physical dimensions of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Sony WX500 has measurements of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") along with a weight of 236 grams (0.52 lbs).

Compare the Pentax S1 vs Sony WX500 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose at that time. Underneath is a front view physical size comparison of the S1 versus the WX500.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S1 and WX500 is 93 and 91 respectively.

Sometimes, its difficult to visualize the contrast between sensor dimensions just by looking at technical specs. The picture here should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the S1 and WX500.

As you have seen, both of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but different resolution. You should expect to see the Sony WX500 to give you greater detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images more aggressively. The more aged S1 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.