Pentax X-5 vs Sony RX100 III

Lets look more closely at the Pentax X-5 vs Sony RX100 III, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Large Sensor Compact by competitors Pentax and Sony. The sensor resolution of the X-5 (16MP) and the RX100 III (20MP) is fairly comparable but the X-5 (1/2.3") and RX100 III (1") come with different sensor sizing.

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The X-5 was manufactured 21 months earlier than the RX100 III making the cameras a generation away from one another. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Pentax X-5 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony RX100 III being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go through a in-depth comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the X-5 grades vs the RX100 III in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Pentax X-5 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 III. The entire galleries are available at Pentax X-5 Gallery & Sony RX100 III Gallery.

When you are intending to carry around your camera regularly, you will have to factor in its weight and volume. The Pentax X-5 enjoys external measurements of 119mm x 86mm x 107mm (4.7" x 3.4" x 4.2") and a weight of 595 grams (1.31 lbs) while the Sony RX100 III has sizing of 102mm x 58mm x 41mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.6") with a weight of 290 grams (0.64 lbs).

Check the Pentax X-5 vs Sony RX100 III in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have attached at that time. Underneath is the front view scale comparison of the X-5 against the RX100 III.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the X-5 and RX100 III is 65 and 89 respectively.

More often than not, it is difficult to visualize the difference in sensor sizes merely by going through a spec sheet. The image below will offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the X-5 and RX100 III.

As you can see, each of the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The X-5 because of its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF more difficult and the Sony RX100 III will provide greater detail due to its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The more aged X-5 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.