Pentax X-5 vs Sony A55

Below, we are looking at the Pentax X-5 vs Sony A55, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by competitors Pentax and Sony. The resolution of the X-5 (16MP) and the A55 (16MP) is very well matched but the X-5 (1/2.3") and A55 (APS-C) feature totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The X-5 was unveiled 2 years later than the A55 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras come with different body type with the Pentax X-5 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony A55 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting through a full comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the X-5 grades vs the A55 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax X-5 and Sony SLT-A55. The full galleries are available at Pentax X-5 Gallery and Sony A55 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera often, you need to factor its weight and measurements. The Pentax X-5 features outside dimensions of 119mm x 86mm x 107mm (4.7" x 3.4" x 4.2") and a weight of 595 grams (1.31 lbs) whilst the Sony A55 has proportions of 124mm x 92mm x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3") and a weight of 500 grams (1.10 lbs).

Examine the Pentax X-5 vs Sony A55 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are working with at that moment. The following is the front view over all size comparison of the X-5 vs the A55.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the X-5 and A55 is 65 and 67 respectively.

Normally, it is very difficult to visualise the gap between sensor sizing only by reading through a spec sheet. The visual underneath may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the X-5 and A55.

Clearly, both of these cameras posses the exact same megapixel count but not the same sensor sizing. The X-5 offers the tinier sensor which should make obtaining shallow DOF more difficult. The more recent X-5 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.