Panasonic G2 vs Pentax W80

Its time to look closer at the Panasonic G2 and Pentax W80, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the G2 (12MP) and the W80 (12MP) is fairly comparable but the G2 (Four Thirds) and W80 (1/2.3") posses totally different sensor sizing.

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The G2 was revealed 13 months later than the W80 making them a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic G2 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax W80 being a Compact camera.

Before we go into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the G2 matches up vs the W80 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2 and Pentax Optio W80. The full galleries are available at Panasonic G2 Gallery and Pentax W80 Gallery.

When you are looking to lug around your camera often, you should take into account its weight and measurements. The Panasonic G2 has got external dimensions of 124mm x 84mm x 74mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 2.9") accompanied by a weight of 428 grams (0.94 lbs) and the Pentax W80 has proportions of 100mm x 56mm x 25mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") having a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic G2 and Pentax W80 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have attached at that time. Underneath is a front view proportions comparison of the G2 against the W80.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the G2 and W80 is 72 and 94 respectively.

Usually, it is difficult to visualise the difference in sensor measurements only by seeing specs. The graphic here will help give you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the G2 and W80.

As you can plainly see, both cameras feature the identical MP but not the same sensor measurements. The G2 has got the larger sensor which is going to make getting shallower DOF less difficult. The younger G2 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.