Pentax XG-1 vs Sony W830

On this page, we are analyzing the Pentax XG-1 and Sony W830, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Ultracompact by brands Pentax and Sony. The image resolution of the XG-1 (16MP) and the W830 (20MP) is fairly well matched and both cameras offer the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The XG-1 was brought out 7 months later than the W830 so they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Pentax XG-1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony W830 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before delving right into a full comparison, here is a brief summation of how the XG-1 grades against the W830 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Pentax XG-1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W830. The entire galleries are viewable at Pentax XG-1 Gallery and Sony W830 Gallery.

In case you're intending to lug around your camera frequently, you'll need to factor in its weight and volume. The Pentax XG-1 offers exterior dimensions of 119mm x 89mm x 98mm (4.7" x 3.5" x 3.9") having a weight of 567 grams (1.25 lbs) whilst the Sony W830 has sizing of 93mm x 52mm x 23mm (3.7" x 2.0" x 0.9") with a weight of 122 grams (0.27 lbs).

Contrast the Pentax XG-1 and Sony W830 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you use at the time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the XG-1 versus the W830.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the XG-1 and W830 is 66 and 96 respectively.

Generally, it's tough to see the difference between sensor measurements simply by checking technical specs. The graphic below will help offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the XG-1 and W830.

As you can tell, both of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions but not the same megapixels. You should anticipate the Sony W830 to give more detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos a bit more aggressively. The younger XG-1 will have a benefit in sensor innovation.