Olympus SZ-12 vs Pentax WS80

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Olympus SZ-12 versus Pentax WS80, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Waterproof by competitors Olympus and Pentax. There exists a considerable gap between the resolutions of the SZ-12 (14MP) and WS80 (10MP) but they feature the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was brought out 2 years later than the WS80 and that is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a more detailed comparison, below is a simple summary of how the SZ-12 grades against the WS80 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-12 & Pentax Optio WS80. The entire galleries are available at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery & Pentax WS80 Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera, you have to factor its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-12 enjoys outside dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Pentax WS80 has specifications of 92mm x 60mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.4" x 0.9") with a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SZ-12 versus Pentax WS80 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Following is the front view dimension comparison of the SZ-12 and the WS80.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-12 and WS80 is 89 and 95 respectively.

Typically, it is very tough to imagine the difference between sensor measurements simply by checking specs. The photograph here will help provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-12 and WS80.

All in all, both of those cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but different MP. You can expect to see the Olympus SZ-12 to give extra detail having its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The more modern SZ-12 provides a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.