Panasonic G1 vs Pentax WS80

Its time to examine more in depth at the Panasonic G1 and Pentax WS80, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Waterproof by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the G1 (12MP) and the WS80 (10MP) is relatively comparable but the G1 (Four Thirds) and WS80 (1/2.3") enjoy different sensor dimensions.

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The G1 was launched 6 months earlier than the WS80 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic G1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax WS80 being a Compact camera.

Before we go through a thorough comparison, below is a brief view of how the G1 matches up vs the WS80 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 and Pentax Optio WS80. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic G1 Gallery and Pentax WS80 Gallery.

For those who are planning to lug around your camera frequently, you should think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic G1 features outer measurements of 124mm x 84mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 1.8") having a weight of 360 grams (0.79 lbs) and the Pentax WS80 has dimensions of 92mm x 60mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.4" x 0.9") with a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic G1 and Pentax WS80 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are working with at that time. Here is the front view dimensions comparison of the G1 compared to the WS80.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the G1 and WS80 is 82 and 95 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be hard to imagine the contrast in sensor measurements just by seeing specs. The visual underneath may give you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the G1 and WS80.

All in all, both cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The G1 because of its bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF easier and the Panasonic G1 will provide extra detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop photographs far more aggressively.