Pentax W80 vs Sony HX9V

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Pentax W80 vs Sony HX9V, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by companies Pentax and Sony. There exists a large gap between the sensor resolutions of the W80 (12MP) and HX9V (16MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The W80 was brought out 3 years before the HX9V which is quite a serious difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go in to a thorough comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the W80 scores against the HX9V in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax Optio W80 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX9V. The entire galleries are available at Pentax W80 Gallery & Sony HX9V Gallery.

When you are intending to travel with your camera regularly, you should factor its weight and volume. The Pentax W80 has outer dimensions of 100mm x 56mm x 25mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") along with a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs) whilst the Sony HX9V has sizing of 105mm x 59mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs).

Check the Pentax W80 vs Sony HX9V in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you select at the time. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the W80 versus the HX9V.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the W80 and HX9V is 94 and 91 respectively.

Sometimes, it's difficult to visualize the contrast between sensor dimensions simply by looking at a spec sheet. The pic below will help give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the W80 and HX9V.

As you can see, the two cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but different resolution. You can expect to see the Sony HX9V to resolve more detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will help you crop photos a little more aggressively. The more aged W80 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.