Pentax X-5 vs Sony W230

Following is a detailed review of the Pentax X-5 versus Sony W230, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Pentax and Sony. There exists a noticeable gap among the resolutions of the X-5 (16MP) and W230 (12MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The X-5 was manufactured 3 years after the W230 which is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Pentax X-5 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony W230 being a Compact camera.

Before delving in to a in-depth comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the X-5 scores vs the W230 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax X-5 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W230. The entire galleries are available at Pentax X-5 Gallery & Sony W230 Gallery.

When you are going to carry around your camera frequently, you need to consider its weight and measurements. The Pentax X-5 provides outer 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 W230 has proportions of 95mm x 57mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs).

Check out the Pentax X-5 versus Sony W230 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have during that time. The following is the front view overall size comparison of the X-5 and the W230.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the X-5 and W230 is 65 and 95 respectively.

Typically, it's difficult to imagine the gap in sensor sizes just by checking out technical specs. The picture here will help provide you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the X-5 and W230.

As you have seen, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but different MP. You can expect to see the Pentax X-5 to provide more detail due to its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop photos far more aggressively. The more recent X-5 provides an edge when it comes to sensor tech.