Panasonic ZS80 vs Pentax WG-2

On this page, we are looking at the Panasonic ZS80 vs Pentax WG-2, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Waterproof by brands Panasonic and Pentax. There is a crucial difference between the sensor resolutions of the ZS80 (20MP) and WG-2 (16MP) but both cameras have the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The ZS80 was released 6 years after the WG-2 which is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go into a thorough comparison, here is a short overview of how the ZS80 scores versus the WG-2 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS80 and Pentax Optio WG-2. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic ZS80 Gallery and Pentax WG-2 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry around your camera, you will need to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS80 enjoys exterior measurements of 112mm x 69mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 327 grams (0.72 lbs) while the Pentax WG-2 has proportions of 122mm x 61mm x 30mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 1.2") having a weight of 192 grams (0.42 lbs).

See the Panasonic ZS80 vs Pentax WG-2 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have chosen at the time. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the ZS80 against the WG-2.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the ZS80 and WG-2 is 86 and 91 respectively.

Generally, it is difficult to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes only by checking a spec sheet. The image below should provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS80 and WG-2.

Clearly, the two cameras have the same sensor dimensions but different resolution. You should expect to see the Panasonic ZS80 to resolve greater detail as a result of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos a bit more aggressively. The more recent ZS80 should have an edge with regard to sensor technology.