Panasonic S5 vs Pentax WS80

Here, we are contrasting the Panasonic S5 and Pentax WS80, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the other is a Waterproof by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There is a sizeable difference among the image resolutions of the S5 (24MP) and WS80 (10MP) and the S5 (Full frame) and WS80 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor sizing.

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The S5 was revealed 11 years later than the WS80 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic S5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax WS80 being a Compact camera.

Before delving right into a detailed comparison, here is a simple summation of how the S5 grades versus the WS80 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 and Pentax Optio WS80. The full galleries are available at Panasonic S5 Gallery and Pentax WS80 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry your camera frequently, you have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic S5 offers physical measurements of 133mm x 97mm x 82mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 3.2") having a weight of 714 grams (1.57 lbs) whilst the Pentax WS80 has measurements of 92mm x 60mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.4" x 0.9") having a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic S5 and Pentax WS80 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you choose at that moment. Following is a front view scale comparison of the S5 and the WS80.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the S5 and WS80 is 60 and 95 respectively.

Usually, it's tough to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing only by researching specs. The graphic here will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the S5 and WS80.

All in all, each of the cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The S5 having a larger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF easier and the Panasonic S5 will result in more detail because of its extra 14 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop images a good deal more aggressively. The newer S5 will have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.