Published Oct 3, 2025 3 min read

When buying a new camera, you will often notice specifications highlighting pixels and megapixels. While both terms are linked to image resolution, they serve different roles in photography. Many shoppers assume that a higher megapixel count guarantees better photos, but this is only part of the truth. Understanding pixels vs megapixels in photography will help you make informed decisions when choosing the right camera for your needs.


The good news is that upgrading your camera or other electronics no longer requires exhausting your savings. With Bajaj Finserv’s Easy EMI Loan, you can step into any of its 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities in India and choose your preferred model. Get loan limits of up to Rs. 5 lakh and spread the cost into Easy EMIs that fit your monthly budget. On select models, you can even enjoy zero down payment and bring your product home without any upfront cost. Checking your loan eligibility online takes only minutes, so you know exactly what you can buy before visiting the store.

Understanding pixels - The building blocks of digital images

Pixels are the tiny dots that make up every digital image. The more pixels your camera sensor captures, the more detail your photo can display. However, it is not just about quantity—pixel quality matters too. Here is why pixels are important in photography:

  • Sharpness and detail: Higher pixel density creates clearer and more defined images.
  • Low-light performance: Larger pixels capture more light, improving shots in dark conditions.
  • Editing flexibility: Good pixel quality ensures better results when cropping or enlarging photos.
  • Overall clarity: Pixels influence how natural and vibrant your pictures appear.

If you are looking to get yourself a new camera, you can now make your purchase even more affordable with the Maha Bachat Calculator. Bring down the cost of electronics and appliances by combining brand discounts, dealer offers, and EMI deals—all in one place. Calculate your extra savings instantly and shop smarter today.

What is a pixel

A pixel is the smallest unit of a digital image, often described as a tiny square of colour. When millions of these pixels come together, they form the photographs and videos we see on our devices. The size and quality of each pixel affect how sharp, bright, and clear the final image appears. In photography, pixels act like building blocks—more pixels can mean more detail, but larger pixels often deliver better clarity, especially in low light.

What is a megapixel

A megapixel refers to one million pixels. In photography, the term is used to describe the resolution of a camera sensor. For example, a 12 MP camera captures 12 million pixels in a single image. More megapixels generally allow you to print larger photos and crop images without losing detail. However, megapixels alone do not guarantee better quality—the sensor size, lens, and processing power also play an important role in how good your photos look.

Pixels vs megapixels

Pixels and megapixels work together in photography but serve different purposes. Pixels define image clarity, while megapixels measure resolution and print size.

PointPixelsMegapixels 
DefinitionSmallest unit of a digital imageOne million pixels representing camera resolution
Role in photographyAffect sharpness, clarity, and light sensitivityInfluence print size and ability to crop photos
Best suited forLow-light shots, richer details, natural coloursLarger prints, detailed crops, high-resolution images
Key takeawayQuality of pixels decides clarity and performanceMore megapixels offer resolution but not always quality

The impact of megapixels on image quality and resolution

Megapixels decide how much detail your camera can capture. They influence photo sharpness, printing size, and cropping flexibility. To understand the differences in more depth, explore megapixels vs resolution.

  • Sharper images: Higher megapixels mean more detailed photos.
  • Better prints: Ideal for posters, albums, or professional use.
  • Cropping ease: You can zoom or crop without losing quality.
  • Versatility: Suitable for both casual and professional photography needs.

Beyond megapixels - Other factors influencing image quality

Image quality is not only about megapixels. Sensor size, lens quality, and image processing also play crucial roles. 


  • Sensor size: Larger sensors capture more light and improve low-light performance.
  • Lens quality: Sharp lenses reduce distortion and enhance overall photo clarity.
  • Image processing: Software inside the camera refines colours, sharpness, and details.
  • Lighting conditions: Proper lighting dramatically impacts the final image quality.

Learn more about - DSLR photography ideas


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How to choose the right camera: balancing megapixels with practical needs

Choosing a camera is about more than megapixels. Consider your photography style, print needs, and low-light performance.

  • Everyday use: 12–24 MP cameras are ideal for travel and social media photos.
  • Professional shoots: 48 MP or higher works best for large prints and editing.
  • Low-light photography: Cameras with larger pixels capture clearer images in dim conditions.
  • Budget-friendly choice: Balance megapixels with features you actually need to avoid overspending.


Get cameras on Easy EMIs with Bajaj Finserv

Upgrading your photography gear with the latest cameras is now simple and affordable with Bajaj Finserv’s flexible financing options. Whether you are a beginner, a traveller, or a professional, you can capture life’s best moments without straining your budget. Plus, you can save even more with the Maha Bachat Savings Calculator, which combines brand offers, dealer discounts, and EMI deals—helping you reduce the overall cost while paying in small, easy instalments.

Follow these steps to get started:

  • Explore products on Bajaj Mall: Browse a wide range of cameras from trusted brands. Compare features like resolution, lens options, video quality, portability, and battery life to find the right one for your needs.
  • Visit a partner store: Once you choose a model, visit any of Bajaj Finserv’s 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities in India. See the camera in person, test it out, and take expert advice before making a decision.
  • Choose the Easy EMI Loan option: At checkout, opt for the Bajaj Finserv Easy EMI Loan. Finance up to Rs. 5 lakh and pay in convenient monthly instalments. Select models also come with a zero down payment option.
  • Check your loan eligibility online: Plan your purchase better by checking your eligibility in minutes. Enter your mobile number and OTP to know your pre-approved limit instantly.
  • Use the EMI Network Card for instant purchases: Already own a Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card? Convert purchases of up to Rs. 3 lakh into Easy EMIs and enjoy a quick, paperless checkout.


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Frequently asked questions

Can I get a camera on EMI?

Yes, you can easily upgrade to a new camera using Bajaj Finserv’s Easy EMI options. Whether you already own the EMI Network Card or are new to the process, here is how you can get started:

If you are an existing user of the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card:

  • Explore cameras on Bajaj Mall: Choose from top models including DSLRs, mirrorless, and compact cameras with features like 4K video, high-resolution sensors, and versatile lenses.
  • Visit a Bajaj Finserv partner store: Finalise your camera and head to one of 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities to see it in person and test it before buying.
  • Use your EMI Network Card at checkout: Swipe your card and convert the cost into Easy EMIs that suit your budget.
  • Zero down payment on select models: Take your camera home without paying anything upfront.

If you do not have an EMI Network Card:
Check your Insta EMI Card eligibility online using your mobile number and OTP. If you qualify, apply instantly and start shopping for your favourite camera in a smarter, more affordable way.

How many pixels is 1 megapixel?

A megapixel equals one million pixels, which means one megapixel is made up of 1,000 by 1,000 pixels. These tiny dots combine to form detailed images, and the more megapixels a camera has, the better its ability to capture sharp and high-quality photos, especially for larger prints.

What is the difference between image resolution and pixel density?

Resolution refers to the total count of pixels in an image, such as 1920 x 1080, which shows width and height in pixels. Pixel density, on the other hand, measures the number of pixels per inch (PPI) on a screen or print, affecting how sharp or crisp the display looks.

What are the benefits of optical zoom versus digital zoom?

Optical zoom uses the camera’s lens to magnify subjects, ensuring no loss in image quality. Digital zoom, however, enlarges the image digitally by cropping into it, which can reduce resolution and sharpness. Optical zoom is ideal for maintaining clarity when capturing distant objects.

Can higher megapixels help in low-light photography?

Higher megapixels improve resolution but aren’t the primary factor for low-light photography. A larger sensor and wider aperture are more critical as they allow more light to be captured, resulting in brighter and clearer photos even in dim conditions, which megapixels alone cannot achieve.

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