Panasonic FZ40 vs Pentax WG-1

Its time to look a little more closely at the Panasonic FZ40 and Pentax WG-1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Waterproof by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the FZ40 (14MP) and the WG-1 (14MP) is fairly similar and both cameras offer the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The FZ40 was brought out 6 months earlier than the WG-1 which means that they are of a similar age. The two cameras have different body design with the Panasonic FZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax WG-1 being a Compact camera.

Before going into a full comparison, here is a quick overview of how the FZ40 scores versus the WG-1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 & Pentax Optio WG-1. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic FZ40 Gallery & Pentax WG-1 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to travel with your camera regularly, you will have to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic FZ40 provides exterior measurements of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") and a weight of 494 grams (1.09 lbs) and the Pentax WG-1 has specifications of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FZ40 and Pentax WG-1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have attached at that moment. Below is a front view measurements comparison of the FZ40 against the WG-1.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FZ40 and WG-1 is 68 and 93 respectively.

Quite often, it is very hard to envision the gap between sensor dimensions purely by going over technical specs. The picture here should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the FZ40 and WG-1.

As you can tell, both the cameras have the same sensor dimensions and the same resolution therefore you can expect similar quality of pictures however you will want to take the launch date of the products into consideration.