Pentax X-5 vs Samsung NX300

On this page, we are comparing the Pentax X-5 versus Samsung NX300, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Pentax and Samsung. The image resolution of the X-5 (16MP) and the NX300 (20MP) is fairly close but the X-5 (1/2.3") and NX300 (APS-C) offer totally different sensor sizing.

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The X-5 was revealed 15 months earlier than the NX300 making them a generation away from one another. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Pentax X-5 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Samsung NX300 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a simple view of how the X-5 scores versus the NX300 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Pentax X-5 & Samsung NX300. The full galleries are provided at Pentax X-5 Gallery & Samsung NX300 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry around your camera regularly, you are going to need to consider its weight and size. The Pentax X-5 comes with outside measurements of 119mm x 86mm x 107mm (4.7" x 3.4" x 4.2") with a weight of 595 grams (1.31 lbs) while the Samsung NX300 has specifications of 122mm x 64mm x 41mm (4.8" x 2.5" x 1.6") with a weight of 331 grams (0.73 lbs).

Take a look at the Pentax X-5 versus Samsung NX300 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you choose at that moment. The following is a front view measurement comparison of the X-5 and the NX300.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the X-5 and NX300 is 65 and 86 respectively.

Typically, it is hard to envision the gap in sensor sizes just by viewing a spec sheet. The pic below might give you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the X-5 and NX300.

As you can see, both the cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The X-5 having a smaller sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field more difficult and the Samsung NX300 will provide you with greater detail because of its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics a bit more aggressively. The more aged X-5 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.