Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Sony W550 and Pentax X-5 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Sony W550 has external dimensions of 94 x 56 x 19 mm (3.7 x 2.2 x 0.75″) and weighs 110 g (0.24 lb / 3.88 oz) (including batteries). Pentax X-5 has external dimensions of 119 x 86 x 107 mm (4.69 x 3.39 x 4.21″) and weighs 595 g (1.31 lb / 20.99 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Sony W550 and the Pentax X-5. Sony W550 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 25mm narrower, 30mm shorter and 88mm thinner than Pentax X-5.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Sony W550 and Pentax X-5.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Sony W550 is significantly lighter (485g ) than the Pentax X-5 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W550 nor Pentax X-5 provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing Top Bridge Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Sony W550 and Pentax X-5's LCD screens have the same diagonal size of 3.00 inches.
On the other hand, Pentax X-5 features a
Tilting screen where you can change the angle of the screen to make it easier to shoot from waist or over-the-head levels whereas the Sony W550 has a fixed type screen which provides less flexibility in shooting positions compared to X-5.