Pentax X-5 vs Samsung ST100

Here is a complete overview of the Pentax X-5 and Samsung ST100, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Ultracompact by rivals Pentax and Samsung. The sensor resolution of the X-5 (16MP) and the ST100 (14MP) is fairly close and both cameras have the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The X-5 was brought out 2 years later than the ST100 and that is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Pentax X-5 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Samsung ST100 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before delving right into a detailed comparison, here is a short overview of how the X-5 grades vs the ST100 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Pentax X-5 & Samsung ST100. The entire galleries are viewable at Pentax X-5 Gallery & Samsung ST100 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry your camera regularly, you have to take into account its weight and volume. The Pentax X-5 provides exterior dimensions of 119mm x 86mm x 107mm (4.7" x 3.4" x 4.2") accompanied by a weight of 595 grams (1.31 lbs) while the Samsung ST100 has sizing of 100mm x 60mm x 20mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs).

Contrast the Pentax X-5 and Samsung ST100 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have at that moment. Below is a front view proportions comparison of the X-5 vs the ST100.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the X-5 and ST100 is 65 and 95 respectively.

Often, it is very hard to visualize the gap in sensor sizing merely by researching technical specs. The photograph below should give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the X-5 and ST100.

As you can tell, both cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but different resolution. You can anticipate the Pentax X-5 to render more detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos more aggressively. The newer X-5 should have an advantage in sensor innovation.