Nikon S32 vs Pentax W80

Following is a thorough analysis of the Nikon S32 and Pentax W80, one is a Waterproof and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Nikon and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the S32 (13MP) and the W80 (12MP) is relatively comparable but the S32 (1/3") and W80 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The S32 was revealed 4 years after the W80 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a in depth comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the S32 grades versus the W80 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Coolpix S32 and Pentax Optio W80. The full galleries are viewable at Nikon S32 Gallery and Pentax W80 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry around your camera often, you will need to factor its weight and dimensions. The Nikon S32 features physical dimensions of 108mm x 66mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.6") along with a weight of 175 grams (0.39 lbs) whilst the Pentax W80 has dimensions of 100mm x 56mm x 25mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") along with a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs).

Compare the Nikon S32 and Pentax W80 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you choose at the time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the S32 versus the W80.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the S32 and W80 is 90 and 94 respectively.

Generally, it can be difficult to envision the difference in sensor sizes only by seeing specifications. The image underneath should give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the S32 and W80.

Plainly, each of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The S32 using its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Nikon S32 will show greater detail because of its extra 1 Megapixels. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop pictures a little more aggressively. The younger S32 is going to have an edge in sensor tech.