Key Features
Jul 01 2013
Announced
12 megapixels
Resolution
| Brand | Pentax |
| Sensor Type | 1/1.7-inch |
| Sensor | CMOS |
| Weight | 391g |
| MSRP | $499USD |
Other similar cameras
Pentax K-1
Released Feb 17 2016 | 36MP resolution
Pentax XG-1
Released Jul 15 2014 | 16MP resolution
Pentax Q7
Released Aug 08 2013 | 12MP resolution
Overview of the MX-1
If you're searching for a high-performing compact camera, the Pentax MX-1 is one device that could offer you everything you need. Offering excellent image and video quality, coupled with advanced features and robust build quality, the camera is an ideal choice for professional photographers and enthusiasts alike. Nonetheless, to gain a deeper understanding of what this camera can offer you, we'll delve into its features and performance to help you make an informed decision. So, let's get started!
Pentax MX-1 Pros and Cons
Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Pentax MX-1 camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!
Pros
Cons
Build and Construction
Body and dimensions
Pentax MX-1
| Weather sealed | |
| Dimensions | 122 x 61 x 51mm |
| Weight | 391g |
| Thickness | 51mm |
Weather Sealing
The Pentax MX-1 is not sealed against water and dust, so it's important to be careful when using it in such conditions. If you often shoot in environments with water or dust, it's recommended to check out another camera with weather sealing.
Design and Handling
Main design features
| View Finder | None |
| Screen Type | Tilting |
| Screen Resolution | 920k dots |
| Body type | Compact |
Suitable for:
| Photography | Above Avg. |
| Videography | Above Avg. |
| Travel | Above Avg. |
LCD Screen
This camera has a tilting 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 920k dots. This makes the Pentax MX-1 not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.
Viewfinder
Pentax MX-1 does not include a viewfinder. The lack of a viewfinder on the MX-1 camera may make it less suitable for outdoor photography in bright conditions.
Image Quality
Pentax MX-1 has a 12MP sized CMOS sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 12 pixels. Pentax MX-1 has a native ISO range of 100 - 12800 which can be boosted to null - null. It can also save files in RAW format which gives you a wider room for post processing.
Key Features
Jul 01 2013
Announced
100 - 12800
ISO Range
| Sensor | 1/1.7-inch |
| Extended ISO | null - null |
| Max resolution | 4000 x 3000 pixels |
DXO Sensor Scores
Overall
49 / 102
Color Depth
20.4 / 26.5
Dynamic Range
11.3 / 14.8
Low Light ISO
208 / 4505
DXO mark sensor scores
The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Pentax MX-1 camera has average color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also average, allowing it to retain low amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is poor, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the MX-1 is poor
Crop Factor
Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.
Size comparison
Crop factor calculator
Crop factor
1x
Full frame equivalent
24mm
This camera: 1/1.7-inch
24mm
Connectivity, storage, battery
| Storage | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
| Battery Life | 290 shots |
| Battery Model | D-Li-106 |
| HDMI | |
| USD | |
| Wireless Connectivity |
Storage
The Pentax MX-1 supports SD/SDHC/SDXC with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.
Battery
The Pentax MX-1 uses the D-Li-106 model of battery pack. This is rated for 290 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.
Photography Features
Flash
The Pentax MX-1 has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. However it lacks an external flash shoe, which limits you to using the built-in flash.
Shutter
The Pentax MX-1 boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/8000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.
With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.
Autofocus
The Pentax MX-1 includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with 25 number of focus points.
While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.
Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.
On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.
FAQ
The Pentax MX-1 features a CMOS sensor
No the MX-1 does not have weather sealing.
The Pentax MX-1 was announced on Jul 01 2013
Yes the MX-1 does have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.
The MX-1 has a native ISO range of 100-12800, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.
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