Pentax X90 vs Sony A55

The following is a extended analysis of the Pentax X90 vs Sony A55, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Pentax and Sony. There exists a huge gap between the resolutions of the X90 (12MP) and A55 (16MP) and the X90 (1/2.3") and A55 (APS-C) offer totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The X90 was announced very close to the A55 so they are of a similar generation. Both cameras have different body design with the Pentax X90 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony A55 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go straight to a thorough comparison, here is a quick summary of how the X90 scores versus the A55 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Pentax X90 and Sony SLT-A55. The whole galleries are viewable at Pentax X90 Gallery and Sony A55 Gallery.

If you are planning to travel with your camera regularly, you'll have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Pentax X90 has got 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) whilst the Sony A55 has dimensions of 124mm x 92mm x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3") accompanied by a weight of 500 grams (1.10 lbs).

Compare the Pentax X90 vs Sony A55 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the X90 versus the A55.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the X90 and A55 is 69 and 67 respectively.

Normally, it is very hard to see the contrast between sensor dimensions just by reading a spec sheet. The image underneath might give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the X90 and A55.

As you can see, both of those cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The X90 having a tinier sensor will make getting shallow depth of field more difficult and the Sony A55 will deliver more detail with its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images more aggressively.