Olympus SH-1 vs Pentax W90

Lets look a bit more closely at the Olympus SH-1 and Pentax W90, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Waterproof by competitors Olympus and Pentax. There is a sizable difference between the image resolutions of the SH-1 (16MP) and W90 (12MP) but both cameras have the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SH-1 was unveiled 4 years later than the W90 and that is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the SH-1 matches up against the W90 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus SH-1 & Pentax Optio W90. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SH-1 Gallery & Pentax W90 Gallery.

In case you're planning to lug around your camera regularly, you will need to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus SH-1 comes with physical dimensions of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") having a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) whilst the Pentax W90 has proportions of 108mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.0") and a weight of 164 grams (0.36 lbs).

Look at the Olympus SH-1 and Pentax W90 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you use during that time. The following is a front view overall size comparison of the SH-1 versus the W90.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the SH-1 and W90 is 88 and 94 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's tough to imagine the difference between sensor measurements merely by reading through technical specs. The photograph here should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the SH-1 and W90.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit different megapixels. You can expect the Olympus SH-1 to give extra detail having an extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures way more aggressively. The more recent SH-1 provides an edge in sensor tech.