Nikon AW100 vs Pentax W90

On this page, we are analyzing the Nikon AW100 versus Pentax W90, both Waterproof digital cameras by competitors Nikon and Pentax. There is a big difference between the image resolutions of the AW100 (16MP) and W90 (12MP) but both cameras boast the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The AW100 was announced 19 months later than the W90 making them a generation apart from each other. The two cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the AW100 matches up against the W90 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix AW100 and Pentax Optio W90. The whole galleries are provided at Nikon AW100 Gallery and Pentax W90 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry your camera often, you need to consider its weight and size. The Nikon AW100 provides outside dimensions of 110mm x 65mm x 23mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 0.9") along with a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs) whilst the Pentax W90 has specifications of 108mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.0") with a weight of 164 grams (0.36 lbs).

Analyze the Nikon AW100 versus Pentax W90 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have chosen at the time. Underneath is a front view dimensions comparison of the AW100 compared to the W90.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the AW100 and W90 is 93 and 94 respectively.

Usually, it can be tough to visualise the gap between sensor sizing merely by checking a spec sheet. The graphic underneath will help provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the AW100 and W90.

Clearly, the two cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but not the same resolution. You should expect to see the Nikon AW100 to give greater detail with its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop images more aggressively. The younger AW100 is going to have an advantage in sensor tech.