Samsung PL170 vs Sony RX100 VA

Here, we are matching up the Samsung PL170 vs Sony RX100 VA, one being a Ultracompact and the other is a Large Sensor Compact by manufacturers Samsung and Sony. The sensor resolution of the PL170 (16MP) and the RX100 VA (20MP) is fairly comparable but the PL170 (1/2.3") and RX100 VA (1") have totally different sensor sizes.

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The PL170 was released 8 years before the RX100 VA and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Samsung PL170 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony RX100 VA being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before diving straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a short summary of how the PL170 grades against the RX100 VA in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Samsung PL170 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 V(A). The complete galleries are viewable at Samsung PL170 Gallery and Sony RX100 VA Gallery.

When you are looking to carry your camera often, you will want to think about its weight and volume. The Samsung PL170 comes with exterior dimensions of 95mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") having a weight of n/a grams (0.00 lbs) while the Sony RX100 VA has sizing of 102mm x 58mm x 41mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.6") and a weight of 299 grams (0.66 lbs).

Take a look at the Samsung PL170 vs Sony RX100 VA in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you choose during that time. Underneath is a front view measurement comparison of the PL170 against the RX100 VA.

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

Usually, it can be difficult to visualise the difference in sensor sizing only by going through specifications. The visual here should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the PL170 and RX100 VA.

Plainly, both of these cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The PL170 due to its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower DOF more challenging and the Sony RX100 VA will provide greater detail as a result of its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos a good deal more aggressively. The older PL170 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.