Samsung PL170 vs Sony HX100V

Here, we are reviewing the Samsung PL170 vs Sony HX100V, one being a Ultracompact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Samsung and Sony. The sensor resolution of the PL170 (16MP) and the HX100V (16MP) is very well matched and both cameras boast the identical sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The PL170 was unveiled 9 months earlier than the HX100V so they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Samsung PL170 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony HX100V being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before getting straight to a thorough comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the PL170 matches up vs the HX100V in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Samsung PL170 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX100V. The full galleries are provided at Samsung PL170 Gallery and Sony HX100V Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry your camera frequently, you'll have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Samsung PL170 has physical dimensions of 95mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") along with a weight of n/a grams (0.00 lbs) whilst the Sony HX100V has measurements of 122mm x 87mm x 93mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 3.7") with a weight of 577 grams (1.27 lbs).

Check the Samsung PL170 vs Sony HX100V in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are using at that moment. The following is a front view scale comparison of the PL170 against the HX100V.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the PL170 and HX100V is 99 and 66 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is difficult to envision the difference between sensor sizing simply by looking at a spec sheet. The visual here will give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the PL170 and HX100V.

Clearly, each of these cameras feature the identical sensor size and the exact same megapixels so you should expect similar quality of images although you should really factor the release date of the products into consideration. The older PL170 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.