Samsung PL170 vs Sony RX100 IV

The following is a detailed comparison of the Samsung PL170 versus Sony RX100 IV, former is a Ultracompact while the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by competitors Samsung and Sony. The resolution of the PL170 (16MP) and the RX100 IV (20MP) is relatively similar but the PL170 (1/2.3") and RX100 IV (1") come with different sensor sizes.

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The PL170 was revealed 5 years before the RX100 IV which is quite a serious difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras come with different body type with the Samsung PL170 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony RX100 IV being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before delving straight into a in depth comparison, below is a concise summation of how the PL170 matches up against the RX100 IV when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Samsung PL170 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 IV. The full galleries are viewable at Samsung PL170 Gallery & Sony RX100 IV Gallery.

For those who are planning to travel with your camera frequently, you will want to factor in its weight and proportions. The Samsung PL170 comes with exterior measurements of 95mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") and a weight of n/a grams (0.00 lbs) and the Sony RX100 IV has measurements of 102mm x 58mm x 41mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.6") with a weight of 298 grams (0.66 lbs).

Contrast the Samsung PL170 versus Sony RX100 IV in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Below is the front view size comparison of the PL170 against the RX100 IV.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the PL170 and RX100 IV is 99 and 89 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be hard to visualize the difference between sensor dimensions purely by reviewing specs. The picture below should provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the PL170 and RX100 IV.

All in all, both of these cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The PL170 with its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field harder and the Sony RX100 IV will offer more detail because of its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots much more aggressively. The more aged PL170 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.