Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Pentax WG-1 GPS

The following is a extended review of the Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Pentax WG-1 GPS, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Waterproof by brands Olympus and Pentax. The resolution of the XZ-2 iHS (12MP) and the WG-1 GPS (14MP) is very comparable but the XZ-2 iHS (1/1.7") and WG-1 GPS (1/2.3") have totally different sensor dimensions.

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The XZ-2 iHS was introduced 17 months after the WG-1 GPS making them a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go right into a more detailed comparison, here is a brief view of how the XZ-2 iHS scores against the WG-1 GPS when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus XZ-2 iHS and Pentax Optio WG-1 GPS. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus XZ-2 iHS Gallery and Pentax WG-1 GPS Gallery.

In case you're planning to travel with your camera frequently, you will want to factor its weight and volume. The Olympus XZ-2 iHS has got exterior dimensions of 113mm x 65mm x 48mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.9") and a weight of 346 grams (0.76 lbs) and the Pentax WG-1 GPS has sizing of 116mm x 59mm x 29mm (4.6" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Pentax WG-1 GPS in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are working with at the time. The following is a front view overall size comparison of the XZ-2 iHS and the WG-1 GPS.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the XZ-2 iHS and WG-1 GPS is 85 and 93 respectively.

In many cases, it is very tough to visualise the difference in sensor dimensions merely by checking out specifications. The pic here may give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the XZ-2 iHS and WG-1 GPS.

To sum up, both cameras have different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The XZ-2 iHS having a larger sensor will make getting bokeh less difficult and the Pentax WG-1 GPS will show extra detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images a bit more aggressively. The newer XZ-2 iHS will have a benefit with regard to sensor tech.