Pentax X-5 vs Sony NEX-5

In this article, we are matching up the Pentax X-5 and Sony NEX-5, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Pentax and Sony. The resolution of the X-5 (16MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is fairly comparable but the X-5 (1/2.3") and NEX-5 (APS-C) feature different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The X-5 was introduced 2 years after the NEX-5 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Pentax X-5 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony NEX-5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting in to a full comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the X-5 scores against the NEX-5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Pentax X-5 and Sony Alpha NEX-5. The whole galleries are provided at Pentax X-5 Gallery and Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry around your camera, you're going to have to factor its weight and volume. The Pentax X-5 enjoys outer 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 Sony NEX-5 has sizing of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") with a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Check the Pentax X-5 and Sony NEX-5 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have chosen during that time. The following is the front view measurement comparison of the X-5 vs the NEX-5.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the X-5 and NEX-5 is 65 and 89 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to picture the gap in sensor sizes only by seeing technical specs. The pic below should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the X-5 and NEX-5.

As you have seen, the two cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The X-5 using its smaller sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF tougher and the Pentax X-5 will provide greater detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop images far more aggressively. The fresher X-5 should have an edge when it comes to sensor technology.