Olympus TG-850 iHS vs Pentax WS80

In this write-up, we will be matching up the Olympus TG-850 iHS and Pentax WS80, both Waterproof digital cameras by competitors Olympus and Pentax. There exists a significant gap between the sensor resolutions of the TG-850 iHS (16MP) and WS80 (10MP) but they use the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The TG-850 iHS was revealed 4 years later than the WS80 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go in to a in depth comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the TG-850 iHS matches up vs the WS80 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus Tough TG-850 iHS and Pentax Optio WS80. The full galleries are available at Olympus TG-850 iHS Gallery and Pentax WS80 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to lug around your camera regularly, you'll need to factor in its weight and size. The Olympus TG-850 iHS offers exterior measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.1") along with a weight of 218 grams (0.48 lbs) and the Pentax WS80 has specifications of 92mm x 60mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.4" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Check out the Olympus TG-850 iHS and Pentax WS80 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are using at that moment. Underneath is the front view dimensions comparison of the TG-850 iHS and the WS80.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the TG-850 iHS and WS80 is 91 and 95 respectively.

Quite often, it is very hard to visualise the contrast between sensor measurements only by looking at specs. The visual underneath should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the TG-850 iHS and WS80.

As you can plainly see, each of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same resolution. You should expect the Olympus TG-850 iHS to resolve extra detail because of its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop pictures far more aggressively. The more modern TG-850 iHS will have an edge in sensor technology.