Pentax X90 vs Sony A57

Following is a complete review of the Pentax X90 vs Sony A57, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Pentax and Sony. There exists a noticeable gap between the sensor resolutions of the X90 (12MP) and A57 (16MP) and the X90 (1/2.3") and A57 (APS-C) boast different sensor dimensions.

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The X90 was unveiled 3 years before the A57 which is quite a sizable difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Pentax X90 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony A57 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving right into a in-depth comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the X90 matches up against the A57 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Pentax X90 & Sony SLT-A57. The full galleries are provided at Pentax X90 Gallery & Sony A57 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry around your camera often, you will want to think about its weight and size. The Pentax X90 offers outer dimensions of 111mm x 85mm x 110mm (4.4" x 3.3" x 4.3") and a weight of 428 grams (0.94 lbs) and the Sony A57 has specifications of 132mm x 98mm x 81mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.2") having a weight of 618 grams (1.36 lbs).

Contrast the Pentax X90 vs Sony A57 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are using at that time. Underneath is a front view sizing comparison of the X90 and the A57.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the X90 and A57 is 69 and 64 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be hard to visualize the contrast between sensor sizes only by going over specifications. The image below may give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the X90 and A57.

Plainly, both the cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The X90 with its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF tougher and the Sony A57 will offer greater detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop pics way more aggressively. The more aged X90 is going to be behind in sensor innovation.