Panasonic FZ40 vs Pentax WG-2

Here is a detailed overview of the Panasonic FZ40 versus Pentax WG-2, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Waterproof by companies Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the FZ40 (14MP) and the WG-2 (16MP) is fairly similar and they use the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The FZ40 was revealed 18 months prior to the WG-2 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax WG-2 being a Compact camera.

Before we go in to a more detailed comparison, below is a simple view of how the FZ40 matches up versus the WG-2 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 & Pentax Optio WG-2. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic FZ40 Gallery & Pentax WG-2 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry your camera often, you have to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FZ40 has got external dimensions of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") accompanied by a weight of 494 grams (1.09 lbs) and the Pentax WG-2 has measurements of 122mm x 61mm x 30mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 1.2") having a weight of 192 grams (0.42 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic FZ40 versus Pentax WG-2 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you select at the time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the FZ40 versus the WG-2.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the FZ40 and WG-2 is 68 and 91 respectively.

Generally, it's hard to imagine the gap between sensor sizing just by reading technical specs. The visual here might give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the FZ40 and WG-2.

As you can tell, both of those cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but different MP. You can anticipate the Pentax WG-2 to deliver extra detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop images far more aggressively. The older FZ40 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.