Pentax VS20 vs Sony HX80

The following is a in depth assessment of the Pentax VS20 and Sony HX80, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Pentax and Sony. The sensor resolution of the VS20 (16MP) and the HX80 (18MP) is very close and they feature the exact same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The VS20 was announced 5 years prior to the HX80 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick summation of how the VS20 scores against the HX80 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax Optio VS20 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX80. The whole galleries are viewable at Pentax VS20 Gallery & Sony HX80 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to travel with your camera frequently, you will want 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") accompanied by a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs) while the Sony HX80 has specifications of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs).

Examine the Pentax VS20 and Sony HX80 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you choose at the time. The following is the front view sizing comparison of the VS20 compared to the HX80.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the VS20 and HX80 is 90 and 91 respectively.

Quite often, it's difficult to visualise the gap in sensor dimensions merely by looking through a spec sheet. The image underneath should give you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the VS20 and HX80.

As you can see, both of those cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but not the same MP. You can expect to see the Sony HX80 to render extra detail with its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will help you crop pics somewhat more aggressively. The more aged VS20 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.