Pentax W90 vs Sony QX30

Below, we are evaluating the Pentax W90 and Sony QX30, former being a Waterproof while the other is a Lens-style by rivals Pentax and Sony. There is a considerable difference between the image resolutions of the W90 (12MP) and QX30 (20MP) but they possess the exact same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The W90 was unveiled 5 years before the QX30 and that is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras come with different body type with the Pentax W90 being a Compact camera and the Sony QX30 being a Lens-style camera.

Before getting in to a in-depth comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the W90 scores versus the QX30 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax Optio W90 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-QX30. The full galleries are viewable at Pentax W90 Gallery & Sony QX30 Gallery.

When you are looking to lug around your camera often, you should think about its weight and proportions. The Pentax W90 enjoys exterior measurements of 108mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.0") with a weight of 164 grams (0.36 lbs) while the Sony QX30 has measurements of 68mm x 65mm x 58mm (2.7" x 2.6" x 2.3") having a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs).

Contrast the Pentax W90 and Sony QX30 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have at that moment. Below is the front view over all size comparison of the W90 versus the QX30.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the W90 and QX30 is 94 and 91 respectively.

Often, it is tough to visualise the contrast between sensor measurements simply by reviewing technical specs. The photograph here may give you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the W90 and QX30.

As you have seen, the two cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but not the same resolution. You can expect to see the Sony QX30 to offer extra detail having an extra 8MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The older W90 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.