Pentax X-5 vs Sony S950

Following is a in depth assessment of the Pentax X-5 versus Sony S950, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Pentax and Sony. There is a big difference between the resolutions of the X-5 (16MP) and S950 (10MP) but they possess the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The X-5 was unveiled 3 years after the S950 which is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Pentax X-5 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony S950 being a Compact camera.

Before diving through a detailed comparison, below is a short highlight of how the X-5 scores versus the S950 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax X-5 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S950. The full galleries are available at Pentax X-5 Gallery and Sony S950 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry around your camera regularly, you'll have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Pentax X-5 features outside measurements of 119mm x 86mm x 107mm (4.7" x 3.4" x 4.2") and a weight of 595 grams (1.31 lbs) and the Sony S950 has dimensions of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Take a look at the Pentax X-5 versus Sony S950 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you use during that time. Below is the front view size comparison of the X-5 and the S950.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the X-5 and S950 is 65 and 94 respectively.

Generally, it is very difficult to envision the gap between sensor sizes only by reading a spec sheet. The pic underneath should give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the X-5 and S950.

Clearly, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same megapixels. You should count on the Pentax X-5 to offer you more detail having an extra 6MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots far more aggressively. The more recent X-5 will have an edge in sensor tech.