Pentax X90 vs Sony HX7V

The following is a extended overview of the Pentax X90 and Sony HX7V, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Pentax and Sony. There is a huge difference among the sensor resolutions of the X90 (12MP) and HX7V (16MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The X90 was launched 12 months prior to the HX7V so they are of a similar generation. The two cameras offer different body type with the Pentax X90 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony HX7V being a Compact camera.

Before delving through a full comparison, below is a quick view of how the X90 grades vs the HX7V when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax X90 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX7V. The complete galleries are provided at Pentax X90 Gallery and Sony HX7V Gallery.

If you're intending to travel with your camera, you'll need to factor its weight and dimensions. The Pentax X90 offers 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 HX7V has dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs).

Check the Pentax X90 and Sony HX7V in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you select at the time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the X90 against the HX7V.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the X90 and HX7V is 69 and 92 respectively.

Usually, it can be hard to visualise the contrast in sensor dimensions merely by viewing a spec sheet. The image below might give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the X90 and HX7V.

Clearly, each of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same resolution. You should expect the Sony HX7V to render more detail utilizing its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged X90 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.