Pentax W90 vs Sony A99

On this page, we are evaluating the Pentax W90 vs Sony A99, one being a Waterproof and the other is a Advanced DSLR by companies Pentax and Sony. There is a sizeable difference among the sensor resolutions of the W90 (12MP) and A99 (24MP) and the W90 (1/2.3") and A99 (Full frame) have totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The W90 was released 3 years prior to the A99 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Pentax W90 being a Compact camera and the Sony A99 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the W90 matches up versus the A99 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax Optio W90 and Sony SLT-A99. The complete galleries are viewable at Pentax W90 Gallery and Sony A99 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry your camera regularly, you're going to have to consider its weight and volume. The Pentax W90 comes with exterior measurements of 108mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.0") having a weight of 164 grams (0.36 lbs) and the Sony A99 has sizing of 147mm x 111mm x 78mm (5.8" x 4.4" x 3.1") having a weight of 812 grams (1.79 lbs).

Analyze the Pentax W90 vs Sony A99 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have attached at that time. Following is a front view measurement comparison of the W90 and the A99.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the W90 and A99 is 94 and 57 respectively.

Often, it's tough to see the difference in sensor sizing just by looking through technical specs. The photograph below will offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the W90 and A99.

As you can tell, both cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The W90 due to its smaller sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field trickier and the Sony A99 will render extra detail as a result of its extra 12MP. Greater resolution will enable you to crop images more aggressively. The older W90 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.