Pentax X-5 vs Sony A300

Following is a in depth analysis of the Pentax X-5 versus Sony A300, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Pentax and Sony. There is a significant difference between the resolutions of the X-5 (16MP) and A300 (10MP) and the X-5 (1/2.3") and A300 (APS-C) offer totally different sensor sizing.

Samsung Releases Faster Versions of EVO MicroSD Cards

The X-5 was manufactured 4 years after the A300 which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Pentax X-5 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony A300 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before going right into a full comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the X-5 grades against the A300 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Pentax X-5 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A300. The entire galleries are viewable at Pentax X-5 Gallery and Sony A300 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry around your camera regularly, you'll need to consider its weight and size. The Pentax X-5 has got physical dimensions of 119mm x 86mm x 107mm (4.7" x 3.4" x 4.2") having a weight of 595 grams (1.31 lbs) and the Sony A300 has specifications of 131mm x 99mm x 75mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") along with a weight of 632 grams (1.39 lbs).

Compare the Pentax X-5 versus Sony A300 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have at the time. Below is a front view overall size comparison of the X-5 versus the A300.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the X-5 and A300 is 65 and 64 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is tough to see the difference between sensor sizes merely by reviewing technical specs. The picture here will offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the X-5 and A300.

As you have seen, both the cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The X-5 because of its tinier sensor will make getting shallower DOF tougher and the Pentax X-5 will offer greater detail due to its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop images more aggressively. The more recent X-5 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.