Pentax X90 vs Sony NEX-F3

Here is a extended comparison of the Pentax X90 and Sony NEX-F3, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Pentax and Sony. There is a sizeable difference among the resolutions of the X90 (12MP) and NEX-F3 (16MP) and the X90 (1/2.3") and NEX-F3 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor size.

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The X90 was announced 3 years before the NEX-F3 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras have different body design with the Pentax X90 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony NEX-F3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight to a full comparison, here is a brief view of how the X90 scores versus the NEX-F3 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Pentax X90 and Sony Alpha NEX-F3. The whole galleries are available at Pentax X90 Gallery and Sony NEX-F3 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry your camera, you're going to have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Pentax X90 has exterior measurements of 111mm x 85mm x 110mm (4.4" x 3.3" x 4.3") along with a weight of 428 grams (0.94 lbs) while the Sony NEX-F3 has dimensions of 117mm x 67mm x 42mm (4.6" x 2.6" x 1.7") and a weight of 314 grams (0.69 lbs).

Compare the Pentax X90 and Sony NEX-F3 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you select at that moment. Below is a front view proportions comparison of the X90 versus the NEX-F3.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the X90 and NEX-F3 is 69 and 86 respectively.

Usually, it is very hard to visualise the gap in sensor sizing only by viewing specifications. The photograph below might provide you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the X90 and NEX-F3.

Plainly, each of these cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The X90 using its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field harder and the Sony NEX-F3 will render extra detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will help you crop photos more aggressively. The older X90 will be behind with regard to sensor technology.