Casio EX-Z29 vs Pentax WG-3: A Hands-On Comparison for Budget-Conscious Photographers

Choosing between two compact digital cameras with vastly different profiles and eras - Casio’s budget-friendly EX-Z29 from 2009 and Pentax’s rugged waterproof WG-3 from 2013 - presents an intriguing challenge. I’ve spent countless hours inside studios, on hikes, at family events, and in wild landscapes testing cameras across various genres, so I’ll guide you through these two contenders with that experience in tow.

This article isn’t about marketing fluff or spec-sheet spiels - it’s a practical, no-nonsense look at what these cameras offer, what they realistically deliver, and who might benefit most from each. Along the way, I’ll unpack technical strengths and limitations, field performance, and user experience, helping you make an informed buy.

Let’s dive in.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Handling

At first glance, the Casio EX-Z29 and Pentax WG-3 couldn’t be more different dogs in the same fight ring. The EX-Z29 is an ultracompact pocket camera with a svelte 101x57x23mm body and a featherweight 125g mass. This slimness is a double-edged sword; it slips almost invisibly into a coat pocket, perfect for cheapskates or those seeking an ultra-portable backup. However, such tight packaging sacrifices grip comfort, especially if you have clubs for thumbs like me. It’s a camera you hold gingerly - careful not to lose it.

On the opposite side, the WG-3 bulkier body (124x64x33mm) and nearly double the weight at 230g feel more reassuringly chunky - because they have to be. Its robust build is purpose-driven, packing full waterproofing and environmental sealing. This camera begs you to take it snorkeling, hiking in rainstorms, or biking dirty single-track paths. The magnesium-aluminum alloy body feels like it endures hardship without complaint.

Ergonomically, the WG-3 wins hands-down with larger, well-placed buttons and a thoughtfully contoured grip. It’s easier to operate with gloves or sweaty fingers, whereas the EX-Z29’s controls are tiny and fiddly. Both lack viewfinders, which is common for their class and era, but I found the WG-3’s heft makes framing feel more stable in bright daylight.

Design and Control Layout: A Tale of Two Interfaces

Taking a top-down look confirms what a difference four years and evolving priorities make. The EX-Z29’s button arsenal is minimalistic with a simple mode dial and basic exposure controls (mainly auto). It’s made for point-and-shoot simplicity, sacrificing versatility for ease.

The WG-3, while still limited - not granting shutter or aperture priority modes or full manual control - offers more creative flexibility with dedicated macro, underwater, and action scene modes. The presence of a customizable function button and a larger zoom toggle are thoughtful touches for a camera designed to be used quickly in the field, under less-than-ideal conditions.

Neither camera sports illuminated controls, which could be a pain shooting in dim environments, but that’s par for the course in their price and class. The WG-3’s buttons feel more robust, less prone to accidental presses.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heartbeat of a Camera

When sizing up image quality, we look immediately at sensor specifications - a critical determinant of how a camera performs across genres.

• Casio EX-Z29: 1/2.5" CCD sensor, 10MP resolution (3648x2736), ISO range 100–1600
• Pentax WG-3: Slightly larger 1/2.3" BSI-CMOS sensor, 16MP resolution (4608x3456), ISO 125–6400

The sensor size difference, though seemingly small, translates into meaningful real-world results. The WG-3 employs back-illuminated (BSI) CMOS technology, which enhances low-light sensitivity and reduces noise - a crucial advantage over the older, less sensitive CCD in the EX-Z29. The smaller pixel pitch on the Casio’s sensor inherently limits signal-to-noise performance, particularly at higher ISOs.

Resolution-wise, the WG-3’s 16MP provides greater detail potential, beneficial for landscape cropping or prints. The Casio’s 10MP is adequate for casual snaps but won’t deliver professional-grade enlargements.

Dynamic range, while not officially tested by DXO for either, is visibly better on the Pentax. In my practical tests shooting scenes with challenging contrast, the WG-3 retained more detail in shadows and highlights, thanks to its CMOS sensor and better image processing pipeline.

The antialias filter on both reduces moiré but slightly compromises micro-detail. Neither supports RAW capture, which limits post-processing flexibility in professional workflows.

In summary: if image quality and detail matter beyond social media posting, the WG-3 has a clear advantage.

Live View and Rear Screens: Clarity and Usability in the Field

Every photographer relying on LCD framing and menu navigation will appreciate the WG-3’s larger, sharper 3" TFT widescreen with 460k-dot resolution and anti-reflective coating. This screen provides bright, crisp previews, even under challenging daylight outdoors - a must in all but the most forgiving environments.

The EX-Z29’s fixed 2.7" LCD with a scant 115k-dot resolution delivers comparatively murky, grainy previews, making composition and focus confirmation trickier, especially outside or for fine detail work like macro.

Neither incorporates touchscreen capabilities or articulating screens, so framing can be a touch awkward at low or high angles on both.

Overall, the WG-3’s screen experience noticeably improves shooting confidence.

Autofocus and Shooting Responsiveness: Speed and Accuracy Under Pressure

For many genres - wildlife, sports, street - the autofocus (AF) system’s speed, accuracy, and versatility are make-or-break.

Casio EX-Z29 uses contrast detection AF only, with a single AF mode centered on the frame. There’s no continuous AF, tracking, face detection, or multiple area options. The consequence is predictable sluggishness and difficulty maintaining focus on moving subjects.

The Pentax WG-3, despite its compactness, packs a 9-point contrast detection AF system with multi-area and face detection autofocus, plus AF tracking capabilities. While not blazing fast by DSLR standards, it’s substantially quicker and more reliable than the Casio, especially in continuous shooting burst mode (10 fps), which the EX-Z29 lacks entirely.

In real-world testing, the WG-3 catches and holds subject focus better in dynamic scenes - wildlife snapping, kids running, or urban hustle. The EX-Z29 is relegated mostly to static subjects and still life.

Flash and Low-Light Performance: A Mixed Bag

Both cameras include built-in flashes, but their effectiveness diverges.

The WG-3’s flash range maxes out at about 3.4 meters, combined with flash modes including red-eye reduction and a “Soft” mode to soften harshness - a handy feature for portrait shooters struggling with bright highlights or unnatural skin tones. The sensor-shift stabilization also aids handheld shots in dim light.

The EX-Z29 features a modest flash with a 2.8-meter range and simpler modes (auto, on, off, red-eye reduction). No stabilization puts the onus on steady hands or tripods for low-light shooting, and its ISO max of 1600 isn’t especially useful given sensor noise.

Neither camera excels spectacularly in night or astro photography, though the WG-3’s higher sensitivity ISO and longer shutter ceiling (up to 4 seconds) provide a slight edge.

Video Capabilities: Modest Tools for Casual Content

Casio EX Z29 front Casio EX Z29 screen back Pentax WG 3 front Pentax WG 3 screen back

If video is on your radar - even just casual clips - expect some compromises.

The Casio EX-Z29 shoots at 848x480 (WVGA) max resolution at 30fps in Motion JPEG, a heavy, inefficient codec producing large files with limited quality. It lacks HD altogether, placing it in the “for quick family videos” camp from circa 2009.

Conversely, the Pentax WG-3 delivers Full HD 1920x1080p at 30fps with MPEG-4/H.264 encoding, an appreciable upgrade allowing for sharper, more professional-looking clips. It also supports 720p at 60fps for smoother motion.

Neither camera offers microphone or headphone jacks, eliminating external audio boosting options. There’s no 4K or slow-motion video, so advanced creators should temper expectations.

For vloggers on a budget, the WG-3 is a definite winner in this mold; casual shooters might tolerate the EX-Z29’s basic video.

Lens Range and Macro: Flexibility for Close-Ups and Versatility

Macro enthusiasts, listen up. The WG-3 offers an impressive super macro focusing distance of 1 cm, coupled with a 25-100mm (35mm equiv.) lens - an ultra-wide starting point. This breadth is ideal for tight stamps, flowers, insects, or product details. Sensor-shift stabilization further ensures sharpness when handholding at close range.

The EX-Z29’s fixed 38-113mm (35mm equivalent) gives less reach on the wide end (no ultra-wide) and modest 3x zoom but lacks built-in image stabilization. Also, macro focusing distances are not explicitly noted, suggesting average capability but no specialization.

I found the WG-3 more fun and reliable for macro work, boosting your creative reach in this popular genre.

Weather Sealing and Durability: Ready for Your Adventures?

Here, the Pentax WG-3 absolutely asserts dominance:

• Fully waterproof to 12 meters (roughly 40 ft)
• Dustproof, shockproof, freezeproof, and crushproof
• Magnesium-aluminum alloy reinforced body

If rugged travel or outdoor wild shooting is your game, the WG-3 is a beast you can toss into the elements without blinking.

The Casio EX-Z29 offers no weather sealing nor ruggedization at all. Its thin plastic shell and lack of environmental protection mean it should be handled cautiously - rain, sand, or bumps can be catastrophic.

For adventurers, underwater shooters, or harsh environments, the WG-3 justifies its price premium by far.

Battery, Storage, and Connectivity: Practical Considerations

The WG-3 uses a proprietary lithium-ion battery rated at about 240 shots per charge - a respectable endurance for a compact. Meanwhile, the Casio EX-Z29 uses an older NP-60 model; battery life figures are scarce but likely lower than Pentax’s more modern design.

Both cameras take SD or SDHC cards in one slot each, but the WG-3 also supports SDXC and internal storage - a handy fallback. Both also integrate Eye-Fi wireless SD card compatibility, allowing photos to be transferred effortlessly to computers or mobile devices - a thoughtful convenience.

USB 2.0 connectivity is standard on both, but only the WG-3 includes HDMI out for direct TV viewing, which may appeal to casual showcaseers.

How They Perform Across Photography Genres

Given all this, let’s summarize how both cameras stack up by photographic discipline:

• Portrait Photography: WG-3’s face detection, better sensor, and stabilization give superior skin tone rendering and sharper eyes; EX-Z29 lags behind, suitable only for simple snapshots.
• Landscape: WG-3 offers higher resolution, wider focal length, more dynamic range, plus weather sealing for adventure landscapes. EX-Z29 decent for snapshots in good lighting.
• Wildlife: WG-3’s faster AF and burst mode enable reasonable action captures. EX-Z29’s slow, limited AF makes wildlife shooting frustrating.
• Sports: Similar story - WG-3’s faster continuous shooting helps track movement, but neither matches prosumer cameras. EX-Z29 simply isn’t designed for sports.
• Street Photography: EX-Z29’s compact size favors discreet shooting, but slow AF and poor low light can hamper shots. WG-3 is larger but built for quick, reliable captures, especially in varied weather.
• Macro: WG-3 is significantly better thanks to 1cm macro and stabilization.
• Night/Astro: Neither camera excels; WG-3’s higher ISO and longer shutter times offer slight edge.
• Video: WG-3 vastly outperforms EX-Z29 with HD recording.
• Travel: WG-3’s weather sealing and versatile lens make it the better travel companion, despite being bigger.
• Professional Use: Both lack RAW and advanced controls, limiting professional artistic or commercial work. WG-3’s superior image quality and ruggedness still offer more reliability.

Value Talk: Price vs. Performance

The EX-Z29 often retails under $80 - the name of the game here is affordability at the expense of most performance parameters. For new photographers desiring a low-cost everyday point-and-shoot strictly for casual family moments, it’s a reasonable choice.

The WG-3, at about $300, demands three to four times the investment. But in return, it gives you a multi-purpose, durable, and flexible camera able to handle harsher conditions, produce higher-quality images, and work more consistently across scenarios.

Knowing when to grab the cheap workhorse and when to up your budget is critical.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy Which?

Here’s my boiled-down advice from how I used and tested these cameras:

Pick the Casio EX-Z29 if:

• Your photography is purely casual and indoor/sunlit.
• You need something ultra-compact and lightweight to slip in a jacket pocket.
• Budget is extremely tight, and you don’t mind image quality or feature limitations.
• You shoot mostly still subjects, family photos, or quick social media shots.
• You’re a beginner or someone who just wants a simple grab-and-go backup cam.

Pick the Pentax WG-3 if:

• You want a versatile all-rounder that thrives outdoors, including underwater.
• You value image quality, with higher resolution and improved low-light behavior.
• You need stabilization, macro capability, and better video options.
• Durability and weatherproofing are important - whether for travel, adventure, or rugged daily use.
• You shoot a broad range of genres and need reliable autofocus and burst performance.
• You’re willing to invest in a rugged compact that punches above its weight class.

Wrapping Up

Deciding between these two compacts is easy once you weigh your priorities. The Casio EX-Z29 is an economical, no-frills snapshot machine. The Pentax WG-3 is a tough, competent companion for photographers with a taste for outdoor, creative flexibility, and a bit of cash to spend.

Neither replaces higher-end cameras, but within their niches, both deliver. I hope this deep dive, backed by hands-on testing across styles and environments, helps you zero in on the right fit for your photography journey.

Remember: a camera is a tool, but how you use it matters most. Happy shooting!

If you want a quick final overview of the scores and ratings I derived during testing, here’s a snapshot:

I’ll be back with more detailed gear reviews tailored to your needs - stay tuned!