Pentax X90 vs Sony W290

On this page, we are matching up the Pentax X90 versus Sony W290, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Pentax and Sony. The resolution of the X90 (12MP) and the W290 (12MP) is fairly comparable and both cameras boast the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The X90 was manufactured 17 months after the W290 making them a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Pentax X90 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony W290 being a Compact camera.

Before diving into a detailed comparison, here is a short introduction of how the X90 grades vs the W290 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Pentax X90 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W290. The entire galleries are provided at Pentax X90 Gallery and Sony W290 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry around your camera frequently, you will want to factor in its weight and proportions. The Pentax X90 features external dimensions of 111mm x 85mm x 110mm (4.4" x 3.3" x 4.3") with a weight of 428 grams (0.94 lbs) while the Sony W290 has measurements of 98mm x 57mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Take a look at the Pentax X90 versus Sony W290 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Below is a front view physical size comparison of the X90 compared to the W290.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the X90 and W290 is 69 and 94 respectively.

Usually, it is difficult to visualise the difference in sensor sizes purely by seeing a spec sheet. The picture below will offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the X90 and W290.

As you can see, both the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the exact same megapixels therefore you should expect comparable quality of images however you will need to consider the production date of the cameras into account. The newer X90 will have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.