Nikon AW100 vs Pentax P80

Let's look more closely at the Nikon AW100 versus Pentax P80, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Nikon and Pentax. There exists a huge gap between the image resolutions of the AW100 (16MP) and P80 (12MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The AW100 was released 2 years later than the P80 and that is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise summary of how the AW100 scores versus the P80 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix AW100 and Pentax Optio P80. The complete galleries are available at Nikon AW100 Gallery and Pentax P80 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to take into account its weight and volume. The Nikon AW100 has got physical dimensions of 110mm x 65mm x 23mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 0.9") having a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs) whilst the Pentax P80 has sizing of 102mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.0") with a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon AW100 versus Pentax P80 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you select at that time. Following is a front view scale comparison of the AW100 vs the P80.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the AW100 and P80 is 93 and 95 respectively.

More often than not, it is difficult to picture the difference between sensor sizing just by checking a spec sheet. The graphic underneath should give you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the AW100 and P80.

As you can see, the 2 cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different MP. You should expect the Nikon AW100 to resolve more detail as a result of its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop pictures more aggressively. The younger AW100 provides an edge in sensor technology.