Pentax X-5 vs Zeiss ZX1

On this page, we will be analyzing the Pentax X-5 and Zeiss ZX1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by manufacturers Pentax and Zeiss. There is a huge difference between the image resolutions of the X-5 (16MP) and ZX1 (37MP) and the X-5 (1/2.3") and ZX1 (Full frame) offer totally different sensor size.

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The X-5 was manufactured 7 years prior to the ZX1 and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Pentax X-5 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Zeiss ZX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before delving into a more detailed comparison, here is a concise introduction of how the X-5 matches up vs the ZX1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax X-5 and Zeiss ZX1. The entire galleries are available at Pentax X-5 Gallery and Zeiss ZX1 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Pentax X-5 has got physical dimensions of 119mm x 86mm x 107mm (4.7" x 3.4" x 4.2") having a weight of 595 grams (1.31 lbs) while the Zeiss ZX1 has measurements of 142mm x 93mm x 46mm (5.6" x 3.7" x 1.8") with a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Look at the Pentax X-5 and Zeiss ZX1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have during that time. Following is a front view physical size comparison of the X-5 versus the ZX1.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the X-5 and ZX1 is 65 and 67 respectively.

In many cases, it can be hard to see the difference between sensor sizing purely by reading through a spec sheet. The graphic here will offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the X-5 and ZX1.

Clearly, both of these cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The X-5 because of its tinier sensor will make getting shallower depth of field tougher and the Zeiss ZX1 will give you extra detail due to its extra 21 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop shots more aggressively. The older X-5 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.