Pentax XG-1 vs Sony W690

Below, we will be matching up the Pentax XG-1 versus Sony W690, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Pentax and Sony. The resolution of the XG-1 (16MP) and the W690 (16MP) is relatively close and they feature the exact same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The XG-1 was launched 2 years after the W690 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Pentax XG-1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony W690 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple view of how the XG-1 scores vs the W690 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax XG-1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W690. The complete galleries are available at Pentax XG-1 Gallery and Sony W690 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry around your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and measurements. The Pentax XG-1 has exterior measurements of 119mm x 89mm x 98mm (4.7" x 3.5" x 3.9") with a weight of 567 grams (1.25 lbs) while the Sony W690 has proportions of 94mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs).

Contrast the Pentax XG-1 versus Sony W690 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have chosen at that moment. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the XG-1 vs the W690.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the XG-1 and W690 is 66 and 95 respectively.

Normally, it is hard to envision the gap in sensor sizes only by looking through specs. The pic here should give you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the XG-1 and W690.

All in all, the 2 cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements and the same resolution therefore you should expect comparable quality of photographs though you really should take the production date of the cameras into account. The younger XG-1 is going to have an edge in sensor innovation.