Pentax X70 vs Sony HX99

Let's look more closely at the Pentax X70 and Sony HX99, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Pentax and Sony. There exists a crucial gap between the resolutions of the X70 (12MP) and HX99 (18MP) and the X70 (1/2.3") and HX99 (1/2.3-inch) provide different sensor sizing.

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The X70 was introduced 10 years prior to the HX99 which is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Pentax X70 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony HX99 being a Compact camera.

Before getting into a detailed comparison, here is a simple view of how the X70 scores vs the HX99 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax X70 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX99. The whole galleries are available at Pentax X70 Gallery and Sony HX99 Gallery.

If you are looking to travel with your camera regularly, you have to consider its weight and volume. The Pentax X70 has exterior dimensions of 110mm x 83mm x 90mm (4.3" x 3.3" x 3.5") along with a weight of 410 grams (0.90 lbs) while the Sony HX99 has sizing of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") along with a weight of 242 grams (0.53 lbs).

Compare the Pentax X70 and Sony HX99 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are working with at that time. Underneath is a front view proportions comparison of the X70 vs the HX99.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the X70 and HX99 is 71 and 91 respectively.

Normally, it is very tough to visualize the contrast between sensor dimensions just by going over specs. The picture below should give you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the X70 and HX99.

As you can plainly see, the 2 cameras have different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The X70 using its bigger sensor is going to make achieving bokeh less difficult and the Sony HX99 will offer extra detail using its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more aged X70 is going to be behind with regard to sensor innovation.