Pentax X90 vs Sigma DP1s

Lets look more in depth at the Pentax X90 versus Sigma DP1s, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Pentax and Sigma. There exists a crucial gap among the sensor resolutions of the X90 (12MP) and DP1s (5MP) and the X90 (1/2.3") and DP1s (APS-C) provide different sensor sizes.

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The X90 was released 10 months after the DP1s which means that they are of a similar generation. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Pentax X90 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sigma DP1s being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before getting right into a full comparison, here is a simple summation of how the X90 grades versus the DP1s when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax X90 and Sigma DP1s. The complete galleries are viewable at Pentax X90 Gallery and Sigma DP1s Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry around your camera, you have to think about its weight and proportions. The Pentax X90 comes with exterior measurements of 111mm x 85mm x 110mm (4.4" x 3.3" x 4.3") having a weight of 428 grams (0.94 lbs) whilst the Sigma DP1s has measurements of 109mm x 60mm x 31mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.2") and a weight of 270 grams (0.60 lbs).

Check the Pentax X90 versus Sigma DP1s in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are using at the time. The following is a front view proportions comparison of the X90 vs the DP1s.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the X90 and DP1s is 69 and 90 respectively.

Typically, it can be difficult to visualize the difference in sensor sizes only by checking out specs. The pic below should provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the X90 and DP1s.

All in all, each of these cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The X90 due to its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field harder and the Pentax X90 will show extra detail as a result of its extra 7MP. Greater resolution will let you crop pics way more aggressively. The more recent X90 should have a benefit in sensor technology.