Pentax X90 vs Sony A580

Below is a comprehensive analysis of the Pentax X90 vs Sony A580, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Pentax and Sony. There exists a considerable gap between the resolutions of the X90 (12MP) and A580 (16MP) and the X90 (1/2.3") and A580 (APS-C) offer different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The X90 was unveiled 10 months earlier than the A580 and they are both of a similar age. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Pentax X90 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony A580 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go into a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the X90 scores versus the A580 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax X90 & Sony Alpha DSLR-A580. The full galleries are viewable at Pentax X90 Gallery & Sony A580 Gallery.

In case you're looking to lug around your camera frequently, you'll have to factor in its weight and volume. The Pentax X90 has got physical measurements of 111mm x 85mm x 110mm (4.4" x 3.3" x 4.3") with a weight of 428 grams (0.94 lbs) and the Sony A580 has sizing of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") and a weight of 599 grams (1.32 lbs).

Take a look at the Pentax X90 vs Sony A580 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you select during that time. Underneath is a front view proportions comparison of the X90 versus the A580.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the X90 and A580 is 69 and 64 respectively.

Typically, it is very hard to imagine the contrast between sensor measurements only by checking specs. The visual underneath will help offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the X90 and A580.

As you can plainly see, both cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The X90 with its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF more challenging and the Sony A580 will give greater detail having an extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The older X90 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor tech.