Pentax XG-1 vs Sony HX30V

Let's take a more detailed look at the Pentax XG-1 and Sony HX30V, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by competitors Pentax and Sony. The image resolution of the XG-1 (16MP) and the HX30V (18MP) is very comparable and they come with the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The XG-1 was brought out 2 years after the HX30V which is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Pentax XG-1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony HX30V being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the XG-1 matches up versus the HX30V in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax XG-1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX30V. The entire galleries are provided at Pentax XG-1 Gallery and Sony HX30V Gallery.

If you're looking to carry around your camera regularly, you are going to need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Pentax XG-1 has external dimensions of 119mm x 89mm x 98mm (4.7" x 3.5" x 3.9") having a weight of 567 grams (1.25 lbs) and the Sony HX30V has proportions of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") along with a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

Check out the Pentax XG-1 and Sony HX30V in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have attached at that time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the XG-1 and the HX30V.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the XG-1 and HX30V is 66 and 90 respectively.

Often, its difficult to imagine the difference in sensor sizes merely by seeing specs. The image below might offer you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the XG-1 and HX30V.

All in all, both of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but different resolution. You should expect to see the Sony HX30V to provide more detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop pics a little more aggressively. The more modern XG-1 provides an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.