Olympus E-5 vs Pentax WS80

In this write-up, we will be analyzing the Olympus E-5 vs Pentax WS80, one being a Advanced DSLR and the latter is a Waterproof by competitors Olympus and Pentax. The resolution of the E-5 (12MP) and the WS80 (10MP) is relatively similar but the E-5 (Four Thirds) and WS80 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The E-5 was announced 19 months later than the WS80 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-5 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Pentax WS80 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight into a complete comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the E-5 grades vs the WS80 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus E-5 and Pentax Optio WS80. The whole galleries are available at Olympus E-5 Gallery and Pentax WS80 Gallery.

If you're looking to lug around your camera, you should factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-5 has physical measurements of 143mm x 117mm x 75mm (5.6" x 4.6" x 3.0") having a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs) and the Pentax WS80 has proportions of 92mm x 60mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.4" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-5 vs Pentax WS80 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Underneath is the front view physical size comparison of the E-5 vs the WS80.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the E-5 and WS80 is 58 and 95 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's hard to see the difference between sensor measurements only by going over technical specs. The visual underneath might offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the E-5 and WS80.

As you have seen, the two cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The E-5 having a bigger sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field easier and the Olympus E-5 will offer greater detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots far more aggressively. The more recent E-5 is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.