Olympus E-M1 vs Pentax WG-1

Here, we will be reviewing the Olympus E-M1 versus Pentax WG-1, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the latter is a Waterproof by manufacturers Olympus and Pentax. The resolution of the E-M1 (16MP) and the WG-1 (14MP) is relatively comparable but the E-M1 (Four Thirds) and WG-1 (1/2.3") offer different sensor measurements.

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The E-M1 was released 2 years later than the WG-1 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-M1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax WG-1 being a Compact camera.

Before diving into a more detailed comparison, here is a brief summation of how the E-M1 grades versus the WG-1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus OM-D E-M1 and Pentax Optio WG-1. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-M1 Gallery and Pentax WG-1 Gallery.

When you are intending to lug around your camera often, you'll have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-M1 offers outer dimensions of 130mm x 94mm x 63mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 2.5") along with a weight of 497 grams (1.10 lbs) and the Pentax WG-1 has dimensions of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-M1 versus Pentax WG-1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the E-M1 and the WG-1.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the E-M1 and WG-1 is 71 and 93 respectively.

Oftentimes, its tough to imagine the gap in sensor measurements just by seeing technical specs. The visual below will give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-M1 and WG-1.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The E-M1 featuring a bigger sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF easier and the Olympus E-M1 will produce more detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures way more aggressively. The younger E-M1 should have an edge with regard to sensor tech.