Olympus E-PL1 vs Pentax WS80

Following is a in depth overview of the Olympus E-PL1 vs Pentax WS80, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Waterproof by rivals Olympus and Pentax. The image resolution of the E-PL1 (12MP) and the WS80 (10MP) is relatively similar but the E-PL1 (Four Thirds) and WS80 (1/2.3") possess totally different sensor sizes.

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The E-PL1 was launched 10 months after the WS80 which means that they are of a similar generation. The two cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PL1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax WS80 being a Compact camera.

Before we go in to a thorough comparison, below is a simple view of how the E-PL1 grades versus the WS80 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL1 and Pentax Optio WS80. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL1 Gallery and Pentax WS80 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor in its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL1 enjoys outer dimensions of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") along with a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs) and the Pentax WS80 has specifications of 92mm x 60mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.4" x 0.9") and a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PL1 vs Pentax WS80 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have at the time. The following is the front view scale comparison of the E-PL1 and the WS80.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL1 and WS80 is 86 and 95 respectively.

Sometimes, its difficult to see the gap between sensor sizes merely by going over specs. The picture below might provide you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PL1 and WS80.

All in all, both of the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The E-PL1 due to its bigger sensor will make achieving bokeh simpler and the Olympus E-PL1 will offer you more detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also help you crop photographs a little more aggressively. The fresher E-PL1 will have a benefit in sensor innovation.