Olympus E-PL9 vs Pentax WG-1

Here, we will be analyzing the Olympus E-PL9 and Pentax WG-1, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Waterproof by manufacturers Olympus and Pentax. The resolution of the E-PL9 (16MP) and the WG-1 (14MP) is relatively close but the E-PL9 (Four Thirds) and WG-1 (1/2.3") posses totally different sensor dimensions.

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The E-PL9 was released 7 years later than the WG-1 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PL9 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax WG-1 being a Compact camera.

Before we go right into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the E-PL9 scores against the WG-1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL9 and Pentax Optio WG-1. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL9 Gallery and Pentax WG-1 Gallery.

When you are going to carry your camera, you need to think about its weight and volume. The Olympus E-PL9 provides outside dimensions of 117mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 380 grams (0.84 lbs) whilst the Pentax WG-1 has sizing of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

See the Olympus E-PL9 and Pentax WG-1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are using at that time. Here is a front view measurements comparison of the E-PL9 and the WG-1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the E-PL9 and WG-1 is 85 and 93 respectively.

Usually, it is tough to envision the difference in sensor sizing only by researching technical specs. The photograph here might provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PL9 and WG-1.

As you have seen, each of these cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The E-PL9 because of its bigger sensor will make shooting bokeh easier and the Olympus E-PL9 will render greater detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The newer E-PL9 is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.