Pentax MX-1 Review - Worlds Best Value Compact? (+ RX100 Vs MX1 )
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- Опубликовано: 5 июл 2024
- Blunty reviews the Pentax MX1. Claiming "DSLR-like features in a compact body" the newest advanced compact camera from Pentax may just be a force to be reckoned with when it comes to finding the best value compact cam out there... But how well does it perform when tested in the real world... and even more provocatively, how well does it measure up against what many call the worlds BEST compact camera, the Sony RX100 which costs almost twice as much as the potential bargain that is the MX-1?
Lets find out as the Pentax MX-1 gets the full on Blunty review treatment.
A gallery of my test shots and Sample images can be found here; plus.google.com/photos/113803...
"Classically Crafted, Contemporary Quality
With its genuine brass covers and advanced digital compact capabilities, the PENTAX MX-1 is where craft design meets contemporary quality. The MX-1's fast F1.8-2.5 lens, 4X zoom and large 12 megapixel backlit CMOS sensor allow for bright everyday imagery inside a stylish body. As its brass wears with time, feel the good old days come back to life in your images of today with the PENTAX MX-1."
Key Features
- 12MP 1/1.7" BSI CMOS Sensor
- smc Pentax 28-112mm f/1.8-2.5 Zoom Lens
- 3.0" 920k-Dot Tiltable LCD Monitor
- Body-Based Shake Reduction Systems
- ISO 100-12800 capability
- Full HD 1080p Video capture
- Genuine Brass Body Construction
- Macro Shooting Capabilities
1/1.7 Inch 12MP BSI CMOS Sensor
The MX-1 includes a 12 megapixel 1/1.7" backside-illuminated CMOS sensor to produce high quality imagery with especially notable low-light performance due to a maximum sensitivity of ISO 12800. The low-light shooting abilities are further extended by the integration of Pentax body-based Sensor-Shift and Pixel Track Shake Reduction (SR) systems. This method of image stabilization compensates for the effects of camera shake up to the equivalent of three stops.The image sensor also aids in intelligent focusing capabilities by using technologies such as Fast Face Detection, Smile Capture, and Blink Detection. The combination of these modes enables you to take images of people in a quick and intuitive manner without sacrificing focus or exposure quality.
smc Pentax 28-112mm f/1.8-2.5 Lens
A fast f/1.8-2.5 4x optical zoom lens is featured on the MX-1, giving a 35mm-equivalent zoom range of 28-112mm. The wide maximum aperture benefits both low-light shooting as well as enabling greater control over depth of field. This lens also integrates four aspherical elements in its construction to reduce the appearance of chromatic aberrations and improve overall image quality. Macro shooting capabilities are also afforded by the lens, and allow you to shoot as close as 0.4" / 1cm away from your subject.
Full HD 1080p Video
Full HD 1920 x 1080 video capture is supported up to 25fps in the high quality H.264 compression. Creative video playback options are available, such as high-speed and slow-motion playback options, and connection to an HDTV is also possible via the HDMI port.
Compact and Functional Design
The MX-1 is a compactly designed camera, yet it retains the design functionality reminiscent of larger, interchangeable lens cameras. Textured mode dials, exposure dials, and other physical features give this small camera an effective physical stature. Genuine brass covers are used on the top and bottom segments of the body to provide durability while also instilling a refined aesthetic appearance akin to a film camera.
3.0 Inch 920k-dot LCD monitor
For monitoring and reviewing imagery, a 3.0 Inch 920k-dot LCD monitor is incorporated into the design and features tilting capabilities (down 45° and up 90°) for use from both high and low viewing angles. A dual-axis level gauge is also available and visible on the monitor for ensuring straight horizons when shooting in either vertical or horizontal orientation." 
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Hi Blunty!!
Ive been a HUGE Fan of your reviews for quite sometime now and I extremely depend on your opinions when looking for a camera! So your honesty has gone much much appreciated, so thank you!
I really love your reviews, you are so detailed and articulate! I always come here first for camera reviews. Now I REALLY want this cam!
I'm not in a market for either camera, but I found your review to be sooooo cool! Your enthusiasm shines through and is refreshing to see a camera reviewer with so much energy!
Thanks for bringing us your unbiased reviews Blunty! I really love watching them. I watched your Pentax Q review like 20 times before going ahead and actually buying one (I recently bought another one since they are selling really cheap now). I am watching your MX-1 review for the 5th time now and might add this sucker to my collection!
Thanks Blunty...i took your advice and this camera blew me away. I never expected such good results for 150 sterling on ebay. Big smile. Thanks again.
Blunty you are genious. I am getting MX-1 just based on your review. I've just came back from a tramp in Waitakere ranges down here in New Zealand and logging OMD EM-5 with Pana 14-140mm zoom lens proved to be rather cumbersome (due to damn heat). So P&A looks like is a must for this kind of exercise and this one beats them all. Thank you for, as usual, providing us with such a brilliant review. I can't believe you are not a pro, your pics are extraordinary - you "don't just take a photo you create it" Numero UNO reviewer!
Brilliant Review mate, I'm a proud RX100 owner but also A K-5 owner so I was really happy to hear a completely unbiased comparison between the 2.
Fantastic review.. I was considering both cameras and you've just answered my question. Thanks dude! :)
love your reviews. honest and informative. Thank you.
Fantastic review, thank you for posting it. Watched this and subscribed straight away! Thanks again, it's really helped me choose.
Probably one of the more comprehensive reviews of this camera I've seen, and what tipped the scales for me (altho I haven't been able to figure out that automatic macro mode you mentioned). Thanks for the video.
Great review, first of all!
But if you were asked "Pentax Q or MX-1?" - What would you say?
Thanks again for posting the review!
keep it up!!
I don't need anymore cameras. But I love watching your reviews. Love ya Blunty!!
I love all of your review, gota watch them every night before bedtime
I buy second Pentax MX-1 online after watching your review, and watch many other reviews.
Get in a good condition, and after 6 hours exploring all the featured, I'm satisfield with this camera, a sharp lenses, great build quality, decent quality at low light performance. Can replace my broken Canon 550D.
Thanks for the enthusiastic and informative review. Really enjoyed it. I have waited for the price to come down and just bought one for £180GBP. That would barely buy me a lens for the DSLR. I was also persuaded by your enthusiasm for the build. Some things can get too small and/or end up sacrificing usability for compactness. Think I'll enjoy carrying this beauty around. Thanks again.
It was an Amazon Lightening Deal. I got lucky spotting it but I am aware that it was a repeat of a previous deal so they must repeat.
Blunty, YOU are the MAN!!!
I went and visit your gallery. I just left a comment under one of them, but they ALL deserve a comment.
Are you going to make a video on the Olympus Stylus XZ-2?
Keep on sharing!!
An update from my side: From experiencing your enthusiasm over the Pentax in this video, and after chewing on it for almost 8 months now, I finally got myself that MX-1 this weekend for ~400 €. As a matter of fact, for a guy who doesn't want to give purchase recommendations, you did a darn good job at it. ;-)
Thanks Bounty! Great review! Watched and subscribed.
Pentax does it again...sweet!! hopefully the'll come out with the MX-2 that has better video mode capabilities...
Just a little idea I had for a project. No idea if it'll ever become "really real" thing for public consumption, but the intent is to have the end result in book format.
NICE review! Love to get one MX1 after watching this!
nicely done !
Great voice over too
18 minutes of pure Blunty awesomeness. Thanks for entertaining me while I eat
Woo the Blunty of old :) Great to see a good old camera review.
Man, you were born to sell things. You almost convinced me to buy this although I own a Canon 60d. Very good review!
Standard rule around here, if I do not mention things like battery life, it's safe to assume it was neither crappy or extraordinary... In this case it was perfectly average, pretty easily got me through a day's photowalk with video etc. I never ran dry unexpectedly or prematurely... But I'd still probably get a spare to carry (as I do with all my personal cameras regardless of inherent battery performance, never know when it'll be irreplaceably handy).
Hey Blunty, I was wondering out of curiosity if the MX-1 has a lens cap, or similar in order to protect the lovely bit of glass from getting scratched whilst not in use. It seems a bit of a silly question, but I can't seem to see any pictures of it closed down so I am unsure. If there is no lens cap is there one of those slidy door thingys that the RX100 has. Thanks :)
Excellent review! If I know Pentax the MX-1 will probably be significantly cheaper by holiday season making it an even better value proposition, could be a good companion to my Q. At first I was a little concerned with comparing the RX100 to the MX-1 but I think you did a good job addressing the issue of price versus performance. Will be sharing this review.
Bluntly really does make the best review videos out there in youtube land.
Phenomenal review. Keep them up!
Great review ~ I really appreciated the info. I guess my question is rather general: for cameras of this size, what is the print quality of the photos, and what would the max size be? (8x10, 9x12, etc). Cheers!
Excellent review. I really like the honesty and loads of sample pics and videos from the camera. The MX-1 looks wonderful and I like the words about it's heft and chunkiness. But, I see that the MX-1 is discontinued, which I guess means a follow-up is on the way. Might hold my horses until that's revealed. This is a tough decision. Ricoh GR, Sony RX100 II, or the 'next' Pentax MX-1.
15:00 - 15:20 is the reason I became a photographer. It's that passion that burns deep in your heart that you just need to capture something so monumental. I love Blunty's passion and how he expresses it verbally. It was a beautiful experience to watch him burning with desire about this camera's features. Makes me wish it was morning time already.
:)
Great review!!!!! You smashed it 👌
Nice Review and Comparison. Nice HDR without looking Overly HDRish
Love watching your reviews, they truly are the best! You mentioned that the MX-1 is really silent and subtle, how does the RX100 compare in this sense? Are all the photos used in the video JPEG+unedited? I want a camera that is silent and also good for photographing under low-light conditions (without flash). I’m trying to decide between MX-1/RX100/Panasonic DMC-LX7.. choices, choices!
Most were Straight out of camera JPGs, a few were processed from RAW, a scattering had some minor edits in line with how I'd normally treta an image (standard contrast & colour adjustments mostly, nothing "pixel punishing")
Hey Blunty. Great video. Have you tried the Fuji X30? I think its a similar camera with a few more bells and whistle. EVF, manual zoom, hot shoe.
good god blunty everytime you open your mouth on any product it just makes me want to buy.
Should I go for the Pentax, a leica x1 or a Ricoh grii ? I'm right now looking at cameras in the 300$ category. I do really love be the format of this camera. The brass body and the screen. But does it fall back to much because it's smaller censor?
got a rx100 camera about 4 month ago and i love it to bits, i can recommend warm hear ted eny pocket sized camera. its so nice to be able to take a pic at the right moment and simply always have the power of a beast. i had to learn so much about taking photos like white balance and iso, haha well i hit the right spot for my new found camera love with the rx100. only gone out 3 time for the sole purpose of taking photos and almost all of my best photos is from going to work. thx for the review
Nice job again Blunty.
Great video, great review. In, the US, the LX-7 has been as little $300US several times since Nov 2012, as late as a couple of weeks ago.
Please review the K5iis! I just bought one and it's great, would love to hear ur take
great review.. I would love to see a comparison between this and the olympus xz-2. keep up the good work
Hey Blunty , you do a spectacular job in reviewing gadgets. keep it up ! i just wanted to ask if i shud buy sony hx30 or mx1 ? i basically need it for video shooting
I have no real interest in a compact since I have a DSLR, but this does look like a mighty fine one. I'd have preferred Pentax bring back the old school design bodies on their next DSLR models, though. (not that their current designs are bad, but for retro feel...)
How does this compare to the fuji x20? Which would you recommend, great review thanks!!
Hi Blunty, I really love your review and even purchased the MX-1 because of that. Can you give a suggestion which is the best setting for jpeg on MX-1?
hey Blunty, love your review! I am a Pentax k-5 user, but have been looking at a Fujifilm x20 for a compact camera. Are you planning to do a comparison on between the MX vs x20?
You have such great reviews! one quick question though, i looked on the pentax site, and other places and can't find if the MX-1 has a kelvin scale setting for the WB.. the pentax site says manual WB is available... but that could also mean a custom setting, and not kelvin.. if it had it that would make it awesome.. all its missing for me is a hot shoe to use some wireless triggers.. oh well, can't have it all i suppose. images look great though!!
Great video.
One aesthetic question: Is the lens barrel made of plastic or metal?
in the video you mentioned that the pop-up flash doesn't have any hinges that would allow you to tilt it up or down -- are there on-camera flashes with such a function? (on compact cameras)
Great review Blunty. I have had my MX-1 for over a month now to back-up my K-01 and K-5. The things that appealed to me were the flippy screen, build, fast lens, same menus as my other Pentax's and of course the IQ. I have not been disappointed. As for best value? Without a doubt, what other enthusiast camera could I buy for a mere £199 here in the UK. Sure the RX100 has a bigger sensor, to be honest in the real world you won't really notice. It's like APS-C v FF. As for that 1cm super macro, superb! So bangs for the buck, it has to be the MX-1 at today's price. Cannot fault it.
The fact that the mx-1 is still selling for a similar price 7 whole years down the line is a testament to how good it must be
Were you hinting at something when you mentioned the side project? I would like to see your shots in a book!
Great review! thanks!
wish the MX lens was on the Sony RX100 :) - but can it be better in low light then the RX100 and have better IQ ? RX100 smaller - MX seems more of a competitor with the Fuji X20 as far as size etc. So which of these including Lumix LX7 is the best in IQ and low light performance? - great review as always Blunty
Hey Blunty. Great review. And you are right about those of us who don't have lots of bucks. I took your advice and try out the cinema lens from fujian on my Nikon V1 and love it! Cheap and it produces of the dreamiest close-up shots of flowers and and soft portraits (no need to put vasoline on the lens!). It's not an infinity focus lens so it will either focus 1 ft. or 8ft away. Love shooting with it in manual mode. Can't do video with it however. The camera s/w wouldn't allow me to do it.
Have you considered doing a video to introduce others into the terminology and explain some of the terms for those looking to get into Photography? I honestly think hearing it from a trusted source like you would be fantastic. You're always very good at explaining things in a way people can understand without making it sound too lame or completely talking down to people.
It doesn't have an integral lens-cap like the rx100, just a nice simple clip on one (which does have a leash so you can attach it to the camera if you're the type who loses them ;) ).
How does this compare to the more similarly priced Panasonic LX7? I have not seen your review of that camera. I really like the idea of its faster lens. Overall I must say that I have really have enjoyed your videos!
I enjoyed your review very much. well done!
1) when you consider the $300 difference you mention, with the rx100, that it represents only $0.41 cents per day extra over two year's use, I'd worry about buyer's remorse for not having gotten the better one.
2) as many others in it's category, this thing is so large, I'd rather carry a NX300 + 30mm lens around when I want something this large my pocket. True, I won't get zoom, but with 20mp APSC + f2 lens, I can crop and still get better pics.
Pentax always has the best value. Look at K-5 - Amazing 16Mpx sensor with great low light performance, full weather sealing, amazing video (it looks glorious), shake reduction sensor - all lenses stabilised, 100% coverage pentaprism viewfinder... And it's small and light. But mainly it costs under or around a 1000$!
If you were designing the perfect compact camera what it be like?
what features would it have ??
will have a think over night and come back with list lol
mind i ask Blunty what camera do u use to take this video? i mean the one you use for introducing the MX-1
Nice review. I own 2 of these, as they were going for $199 for a while in the States. I think it's a very good camera for that price, and it's a great street shooter. Some of the art filters are great. If it had an evf, it would be a 10.
really good review!
An excellent video. I'm wanting to get into photography, car photography in particular, and have been pretty set on getting a Sony A77 (because of your review of the A77), however this review has made me rethink... Hmm...
was that a digital level readout on the screen as you were tilting it back and forth in your hands???
The Panasonic LX7 lens is a F1.4 at the wide end.
I am looking now for something that will do equally as well with pictures as video but something that is a little more compact than either of these . I am currently using the Canon 300HS which so far has no equal I am kind of put off however by it's 10 minute record time limits. That aside If there was something out there being made now with that type of quality and better stereo microphones i'd be happy to get it. suggestions?
Hey Blunty I found most cameras even compacts they are a huge investment, is this camera worth the investment, when it comes to use over the years?
Compared to the entry level compact mirrorless (eg nex 3) and dslr (eg d3200) does this have better image quality? Would you suggest someo
Great review! Somehow I knew that I should've postponed getting the rx 100 - I'll have a close look at the mx 1 now. If anything, the competition might entice Sony to drop the price a bit (I'd say 500 USD would be much more justifiable)
Excellent Review, I (canon shooter) want that Pentax!!!!!!
So how does this compare to your other favorite Pentax the Q? Which one produces better photos and which would you rather take with you when you need a small camera?
MX-1 vs XZ-2? Same lens specs and sensor size... would like to see a comparison if you can, Blunty!
That'll depend heavily on what lens you've got on it. Spend up on the better glass and yeah, they'll do very nicely indeed... but the cheap-o stuff and middling kit lenses, probably not - and they certainly won't be as fast as the lens on the MX-1.
Nor will any combination be as compact.. which is the real point of a compact camera, much MUCH easier to take with you at all times, AND get results far superior than any cameraphone.
Out of random curiosity, how big is your camera, lens and camera gear collection?
What a great review. Can you do a RX100 vs. MX-1 video comparison please :)
thanks , you really like pentax starting to see why , very interesting line up they have . its either this or the Q or both !! .
interested in the k-30 or the k-5 too .
Just because it is very similar to the pentax. I understand better what you wanted to do with this review. Keep giving us nice videos.
What about the lens, it seems to be unprotected, so could it stand to reason that its made to not be in pockets but around your neck and out and about?
Good video. But what about the Nikon P7700? it has an equivalent of 28-200 f/2 - 4.
I'm in between MX-1 and P7700
Best review of the rx-100 yet. I bought it on sale!
just cant look for a better person to describe a console more interesting than you. love ya buddy.~ X)
were the photos post-processed or straight from raw files?
'love my MX-1 :)
Great review. just subscribed I dont know much about taking pictures or cameras. Im the average guy usually with the $100 digital. And know use my cell phone. But My kids are growing and Im missing out on the capturing memories. The rx 100 is expensive and the Pentax are going for around $300. As a beginner and for the money Im probably get the Pentax Thanks Great review.
I chose the RX100 as the comparison point precisely for the reason I stated. It is simply the very best compact camera out there (albeit out of the price range of many), why would I use the inferior x10 rangefinder camera as a comparison point instead? That makes no sense.
Nice looks and build quality. Love the dial - Now with the new RX100 MII and its updated sensor with at least One more Stop of light and of course a 1 inch sensor vs the 1 1.7 -
Yes Pentax has faster glass - but also smaller glass which can make a diff. Also no Hot Shoe for off camera flash etc. So Sony RX100 MII now king of the hill in this class - but a worthy competitor for money as it is less money Fuji X20 also in that mix with nice Fuji colors.
I'm hoping you will get your hands on the x100s some times soon.
Thanks for a very interesting review. I'm a Pentax (D)SLR man and have always been so. Just like their design and lenses. But I own the Sony RX100 because of its 1' sensor.
It's clear that I would have probably bought the MX1 if it had been around at the time. It does just so remind me of th original MX in some ways and yes I still have one of those too :-) Atb
Joy to watch. But I think the most compelling reason to choose the MX-1 over RX100 is its zoom range and brightness, which compensates for its weaker ISO performance.
I've been brooding on getting an rx100 ever since it released, but after numerous store visits it has never been able to convince me. Like you said, it is absolutely beautiful and produces amazing results - but something feels off: be it the lag on the front dial, lack of swivel screen, or the general fiddlyness due to size and controls. Today I've had the chance to try the mx1. And boy, do i 100% agree with everything you said! Feels wonderful, setup is logical and it's cheaper. A real winner!!
Now is the great time to get this
I'm only 3mins into this, and I can tell this is better than any magazine, maufacturers, or silly girls reading sh*t in front of a camera off a board type review ! Thanks
Very nice review. But I think a better camera comparison would be between the pentax and the fujifilm X10. Indeed, size, lens, captors and prices are similar. I choose the fuji partially because of the optical viewfinder, and because I am a fuji guy (not fanboy, I also have nikons), but if you can make a comparison video between the two, it might help someone else to choose.
Can you use manual focus in video mode on the mx1?