Olympus SP-600 UZ vs Pentax WG-1 GPS: A Detailed Comparative Review for Serious Buyers

In the dynamic realm of compact digital cameras, two models that often surface in discussions are the Olympus SP-600 UZ and the Pentax WG-1 GPS. Both have carved out distinct niches since their introductions - the SP-600 UZ emphasizing superzoom versatility, and the WG-1 GPS targeting resilience and outdoor durability.

This comprehensive comparison seeks to dissect these two models on all technical and practical fronts, from sensor technology to real-world photography use cases, helping enthusiasts and professionals alike to make an informed decision based on rigorous criteria and hands-on insights accumulated from over 15 years of extensive camera testing.

Physical Dimensions and Ergonomics: Compact vs. Rugged Design

Starting with the tactile and ergonomic aspects critical for prolonged field use:

• Olympus SP-600 UZ measures 110 x 90 x 91 mm and weighs approximately 455 grams, presenting a notably bulky form factor compared to typical compact cameras. Its boxy profile suits users prioritizing robust grip and superzoom utility over pocketability.

• Pentax WG-1 GPS is significantly smaller and lighter at 116 x 59 x 29 mm and around 167 grams, engineered for high portability. Its ruggedized frame supports waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, crushproof, and freezeproof operation, making it substantially more versatile for adverse conditions.

Though both cameras feature fixed lenses and are pocketable compared to DSLR systems, the WG-1’s slimline and rugged build advantageously appeal to outdoor enthusiasts valuing mobility and resilience.

User Interface and Control Layout: Accessibility under Scrutiny

Neither camera includes an electronic viewfinder, relying solely on rear LCD for composition and feedback, a significant consideration in bright outdoor environments.

• The SP-600 UZ features more extensive physical controls tailored for quick adjustments during high-zoom shooting. Its button layout is denser, though accommodating for two-handed operation. However, the absence of touchscreen and illuminated buttons limits usability in low light.

• The WG-1 GPS possesses a cleaner, more minimalist top control scheme that aligns with its purpose-built ruggedness, trading off customization for waterproof sealing. Button feedback is tactile but smaller in size and may require acclimation for users transitioning from more traditional cameras.

Both models opt for fixed-position 2.7-inch LCDs of similar resolution (230k dots), but the WG-1 GPS incorporates an anti-reflective coating that markedly improves visibility in direct sunlight compared to the SP-600’s standard display.

Sensor and Image Quality: CCD Foundations and Resolution Trade-offs

Both cameras utilize 1/2.3" CCD sensors, a standard for compact cameras of their era, but differ in resolution and ISO sensitivity ranges:

The WG-1 GPS edges out slightly in both pixel count and ISO ceiling, theoretically offering more detail and improved low-light sensitivity. However, resolution gains at this sensor size often come with increased noise and diffraction effects. In practical testing, the WG-1 GPS's higher ISO capabilities enable more usable images in dim conditions, though noise at ISO 6400 is still significant.

Neither camera supports RAW output, a critical limitation for professional workflows that makes in-camera JPEG processing paramount. The SP-600 UZ utilizes Olympus’s TruePic III processor, which delivers respectable color accuracy and noise control for 2010 standards, but it cannot match the Pentax's improved sensor-driven dynamic range and color depth, particularly at base ISO.

Live View and Focus Systems: Addressing Autofocus and Manual Control

Both cameras rely exclusively on contrast-detection autofocus using live view on the rear LCD, lacking phase-detection elements or hybrid AF systems standard on mirrorless or DSLR models.

• The SP-600 UZ provides 143 autofocus points across the frame, which theoretically enables more selective focusing regions; however, its continuous autofocus does not exist, and tracking is basic. Manual focus is available, yet without focus peaking or magnification aids typical on more advanced bodies.

• In contrast, the WG-1 GPS offers fewer focus points (9), reflecting its design simplicity. It also lacks continuous AF or face/eye detection, which both cameras omit. In real-world shooting, both units exhibit slow AF acquisition and hunting in low contrast or low light, limiting their effectiveness in fast-action scenarios.

Neither model supports fully manual exposure control modes, neither shutter nor aperture priority modes are available. Both use center-weighted metering, with spot metering options fittingly catering to challenging lighting.

Zoom and Lens Characteristics: Telephoto Reach vs. Compact Optics

• The Olympus SP-600 UZ features a substantial 28-420 mm (35mm equivalent) zoom range with an aperture of f/3.5-5.4, offering a versatile superzoom reach suitable for distant subjects like wildlife or sports at moderate shutter speeds.

• The Pentax WG-1 GPS sports a narrower 28-140 mm zoom at f/3.5-5.5, prioritizing wide to short telephoto framing common in outdoor snapshots and macro work rather than long-distance reach.

Neither lens offers optical image stabilization, a noticeable omission given the extensive focal length on the SP-600 UZ, which affects handheld telephoto sharpness. The WG-1 GPS’s shorter zoom compensates with smaller size conducive to waterproofing.

Both models allow macro focusing down to about 1 cm, providing respectable close-up capabilities enhanced by the WG-1's rugged design favoring nature photography.

Olympus SP 600 UZ front Olympus SP 600 UZ screen back Pentax WG 1 GPS front Pentax WG 1 GPS screen back

Image Quality across Photography Genres

Portrait Photography

Effective portraits demand accurate skin tone reproduction, natural bokeh, and reliable face/eye detection.

• Neither camera includes face or eye detection autofocus, a standard now in entry-level compacts but missing here. The limited maximum apertures and fixed lenses with modest focal lengths restrict the ability to generate shallow depth of field or pleasing bokeh.

• Skin tones handled by the PTP-600 UZ produce a slightly warmer palette with less aggressive noise reduction, yielding more natural texture. The WG-1 GPS shows a cooler tone bias and slightly more aggressive processing.

Landscape Photography

Emphasis on dynamic range and color fidelity is key here.

• The WG-1 GPS's higher native ISO range and better sensor area translate to somewhat improved dynamic range, though the lack of RAW deprives photographers of maximum editing latitude.

• The SP-600 UZ’s longer zoom range is less important for landscapes, but its bulk may hinder portability on hikes. Neither camera features weather sealing, disadvantaging the SP-600 UZ outdoors.

Wildlife Photography

Telephoto reach and autofocus speed dominate this domain.

• The SP-600 UZ’s superzoom has clear advantage, enabling close framing of distant animals.

• Poor autofocus responsiveness in both cameras limits tracking fast-moving subjects. The WG-1 GPS’s 140mm maximum is insufficient for effective wildlife induction but benefits from faster start-up and use in wet environments.

Sports Photography

Rapid autofocus and high frame rates are critical for decisive moments.

• SP-600 UZ boasts 10 frames per second continuous shooting, significantly faster than the WG-1 GPS’s 1 fps, an advantage in capturing sequences.

• Neither camera maintains consistent AF during bursts, limiting practical utility for dynamic sports.

Street Photography

Small size, discretion, and quick operation are vital.

• The WG-1 GPS’s compact and durable body suits street photographers working in variable conditions, while the SP-600 UZ’s bulk and weight reduce inconspicuousness.

• Both lack viewfinders, a drawback for street shooter composure, particularly in bright conditions. WG-1 GPS's anti-reflective screen helps here.

Macro Photography

Close focusing capabilities and stabilization contribute to crisp details.

• Both handle close focusing to 1 cm, but neither offers image stabilization, increasing reliance on tripod or careful handholding.

• WG-1 GPS’s ruggedness enables macro shooting near water or rough terrain, an advantage the SP-600 UZ does not share.

Night and Astro Photography

High ISO control and stable long exposure are essential.

• The WG-1 GPS supports ISO up to 6400 but lacks RAW capture, limiting astro photography potential and postprocessing flexibility.

• Longest shutter speeds are slightly better on the SP-600 UZ (1/2 sec minimum shutter speed) but overall neither camera excels in night photography due to small sensor size and no dedicated modes.

Video Recording Capabilities

• Both can record HD 720p video, but the WG-1 GPS supports 30 fps while the SP-600 UZ caps at 24 fps.

• WG-1 GPS uses Motion JPEG; SP-600 uses H.264, resulting in better compression efficiency.

• Neither offers microphone or headphone jacks, limiting professional video utility.

• Video stabilization is absent, affecting handheld footage quality.

Build Quality, Weather Sealing, and Durability

The WG-1 GPS’s multi-proof construction stands out, enabling use in water (up to 10m), dust, shocks, crushing forces, and sub-freezing temperatures. This certification makes it ideal for extreme environments, adventure photographers, or travel under uncertain conditions.

The Olympus SP-600 UZ omits any weather sealing, carries far more sensitive optics and mechanisms, and does not lend itself to harsh use.

Battery Life and Storage

• WG-1 GPS provides a rated battery life of 260 shots per charge, powered by a proprietary D-LI92 battery pack. The SP-600 UZ’s battery life is unspecified but is generally lower given older technology and CCD sensor power demands.

• Both cameras support SD/SDHC cards; WG-1 GPS also accepts SDXC for higher capacity.

Connectivity and Extras

• WG-1 GPS features built-in GPS for geotagging - useful for travel and location-based organizing.

• It supports Eye-Fi wireless card connectivity, facilitating wireless image transfer, albeit limited by third-party hardware.

• Olympus SP-600 UZ lacks any wireless or GPS capabilities, limiting tethered or networked workflows.

• Both cameras have HDMI and USB ports (USB 2.0) for basic data transfer and external display.

Price and Value Assessment

• The Olympus SP-600 UZ retails near $188, targeting budget users seeking superzoom capabilities.

• The Pentax WG-1 GPS, priced around $350, invests more in durable design, higher resolution, extended ISO, and GPS functionality.

Consumers prioritizing telephoto reach on a budget might find the Olympus offering an acceptable tradeoff, while outdoor enthusiasts needing a rugged, reliable companion value the Pentax’s build and features despite higher cost.

Recommendations by User Category

For Beginners and Budget-Conscious Shooters

• The Olympus SP-600 UZ affords a superzoom experience and basic manual focus with simpler controls at a lower price point, albeit with less versatility in adverse environments.

Travel and Adventure Photographers

• Pentax WG-1 GPS is the clear recommendation, offering waterproofing, shock resistance, GPS, and solid all-around performance useful for diverse travel scenarios, particularly where gear risk is non-trivial.

Wildlife and Nature Photographers

• If telephoto reach with minimal budget is primary, SP-600 UZ’s longer zoom is beneficial.

• For closer-range nature photography where durability is a factor (macro, landscapes), WG-1 GPS excels.

Sports Photographers

• Neither camera is ideal, but if forced to choose, the SP-600’s faster burst rate provides modest advantages.

Street Photographers

• The WG-1 GPS’s discreet size and rugged frame make it more practical for candid shooting in uncontrolled environments.

Final Verdict

Both the Olympus SP-600 UZ and Pentax WG-1 GPS manifest distinctive priorities: the former furnishes an extensive zoom range and faster shooting pace within a dated, bulkier chassis; the latter concentrates on durability, higher resolution, GPS tagging, and outdoor adaptability with appreciable portability.

Neither camera matches modern standards in sensor technology, autofocus sophistication, or manual exposure control, nor do they support RAW capture - factors limiting their appeal for professionals reliant on fine postprocessing and precise manual control.

However, for targeted use cases within enthusiast circles - budget superzoom photography for the SP-600 UZ and rugged travel/dive photography for the WG-1 GPS - these cameras remain thoughtful choices. Prospective buyers should weigh their priorities regarding lens reach, durability, GPS/mapping needs, and shooting style to ensure alignment with their photographic ambitions.

If you are considering these models or similar compact superzooms and rugged compacts, be mindful that advancements in mirrorless and compact systems since their launch have significantly expanded capabilities, suggesting today's alternatives may better serve both casual and professional workflows.

For more detailed breakdowns and performance tests across genres, see the integrated images and side-by-side data tables throughout this article.