Olympus 550WP vs Pentax P80

Following is a in-depth overview of the Olympus 550WP versus Pentax P80, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Pentax. The image resolution of the 550WP (10MP) and the P80 (12MP) is pretty well matched and both cameras posses the same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The 550WP was brought out 7 months before the P80 so they are of a similar age. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before going right into a detailed comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the 550WP matches up versus the P80 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus 550WP & Pentax Optio P80. The entire galleries are available at Olympus 550WP Gallery & Pentax P80 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry around your camera regularly, you need to think about its weight and measurements. The Olympus 550WP has got external measurements of 94mm x 62mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") having a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) and the Pentax P80 has proportions of 102mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.0") and a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Check out the Olympus 550WP versus Pentax P80 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you use during that time. Following is a front view measurement comparison of the 550WP versus the P80.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the 550WP and P80 is 94 and 95 respectively.

Generally, it is very tough to visualise the contrast between sensor sizes purely by looking at technical specs. The pic underneath will help give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the 550WP and P80.

As you have seen, the two cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same resolution. You can expect the Pentax P80 to give you greater detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The more aged 550WP is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.