Pentax W90 vs Sony HX99

Here is a complete analysis of the Pentax W90 versus Sony HX99, former being a Waterproof while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Pentax and Sony. There is a considerable difference among the resolutions of the W90 (12MP) and HX99 (18MP) and the W90 (1/2.3") and HX99 (1/2.3-inch) come with different sensor dimensions.

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The W90 was revealed 9 years prior to the HX99 and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a short introduction of how the W90 scores against the HX99 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax Optio W90 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX99. The full galleries are viewable at Pentax W90 Gallery & Sony HX99 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera often, you're going to have to factor in its weight and size. The Pentax W90 provides physical dimensions of 108mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.0") with a weight of 164 grams (0.36 lbs) whilst the Sony HX99 has specifications of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 242 grams (0.53 lbs).

Contrast the Pentax W90 versus Sony HX99 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are working with at that time. The following is the front view overall size comparison of the W90 and the HX99.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the W90 and HX99 is 94 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's hard to picture the contrast in sensor sizing merely by researching technical specs. The photograph here will provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the W90 and HX99.

As you can tell, both of these cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The W90 using its larger sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Sony HX99 will provide you with more detail because of its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will help you crop photos far more aggressively. The older W90 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.