Samsung PL120 vs Sony QX1

The following is a complete review of the Samsung PL120 and Sony QX1, former is a Ultracompact while the latter is a Lens-style by companies Samsung and Sony. There is a sizable difference among the sensor resolutions of the PL120 (14MP) and QX1 (20MP) and the PL120 (1/2.3") and QX1 (APS-C) have different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The PL120 was introduced 4 years before the QX1 which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Samsung PL120 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony QX1 being a Lens-style camera.

Before we go right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the PL120 scores versus the QX1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Samsung PL120 & Sony Alpha QX1. The whole galleries are viewable at Samsung PL120 Gallery & Sony QX1 Gallery.

When you are intending to travel with your camera, you'll have to factor in its weight and size. The Samsung PL120 enjoys outer measurements of 94mm x 54mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.7") with a weight of n/a grams (0.00 lbs) whilst the Sony QX1 has specifications of 74mm x 70mm x 53mm (2.9" x 2.8" x 2.1") with a weight of 216 grams (0.48 lbs).

See the Samsung PL120 and Sony QX1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are working with at that time. Here is a front view size comparison of the PL120 compared to the QX1.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the PL120 and QX1 is 99 and 90 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's tough to imagine the gap in sensor dimensions purely by viewing technical specs. The picture underneath should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the PL120 and QX1.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras have different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The PL120 having a smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF harder and the Sony QX1 will provide you with more detail using its extra 6MP. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more aged PL120 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.