Pentax VS20 vs Sony HX300

Here, we will be contrasting the Pentax VS20 and Sony HX300, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by competitors Pentax and Sony. The resolution of the VS20 (16MP) and the HX300 (20MP) is pretty comparable and both cameras have the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

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The VS20 was released 13 months before the HX300 which makes them a generation away from each other. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Pentax VS20 being a Compact camera and the Sony HX300 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go right into a in depth comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the VS20 grades versus the HX300 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax Optio VS20 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX300. The complete galleries are provided at Pentax VS20 Gallery and Sony HX300 Gallery.

When you are intending to travel with your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor in its weight and size. The Pentax VS20 has got exterior dimensions of 111mm x 61mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 1.5") having a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs) while the Sony HX300 has specifications of 130mm x 103mm x 93mm (5.1" x 4.1" x 3.7") having a weight of 623 grams (1.37 lbs).

See the Pentax VS20 and Sony HX300 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you choose during that time. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the VS20 and the HX300.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the VS20 and HX300 is 90 and 63 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's difficult to envision the contrast in sensor dimensions just by going through specifications. The image below will help provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the VS20 and HX300.

Plainly, the two cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit not the same resolution. You should expect the Sony HX300 to provide more detail as a result of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop photographs a good deal more aggressively. The more aged VS20 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.