Pentax XG-1 vs Samsung SL720

In this article, we will be matching up the Pentax XG-1 vs Samsung SL720, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Ultracompact by competitors Pentax and Samsung. There is a sizeable difference among the sensor resolutions of the XG-1 (16MP) and SL720 (12MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The XG-1 was manufactured 5 years after the SL720 which is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Pentax XG-1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Samsung SL720 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before we go through a step-by-step comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the XG-1 grades versus the SL720 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax XG-1 and Samsung SL720. The entire galleries are provided at Pentax XG-1 Gallery and Samsung SL720 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to travel with your camera often, you're going to have to consider its weight and size. The Pentax XG-1 has outer dimensions of 119mm x 89mm x 98mm (4.7" x 3.5" x 3.9") and a weight of 567 grams (1.25 lbs) and the Samsung SL720 has specifications of 92mm x 61mm x 23mm (3.6" x 2.4" x 0.9") with a weight of 168 grams (0.37 lbs).

Take a look at the Pentax XG-1 vs Samsung SL720 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you select at that moment. Below is the front view scale comparison of the XG-1 compared to the SL720.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the XG-1 and SL720 is 66 and 94 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is difficult to visualize the gap in sensor dimensions only by going through specifications. The image below might provide you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the XG-1 and SL720.

To sum up, each of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You should expect the Pentax XG-1 to show more detail due to its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop shots far more aggressively. The more modern XG-1 should have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.