Panasonic G3 vs Pentax WG-1

Below is a complete review of the Panasonic G3 versus Pentax WG-1, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Waterproof by companies Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the G3 (16MP) and the WG-1 (14MP) is very similar but the G3 (Four Thirds) and WG-1 (1/2.3") feature different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The G3 was released 6 months later than the WG-1 and they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic G3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax WG-1 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick summation of how the G3 grades versus the WG-1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 and Pentax Optio WG-1. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic G3 Gallery and Pentax WG-1 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic G3 comes with outside measurements of 115mm x 84mm x 47mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 1.9") and a weight of 336 grams (0.74 lbs) while the Pentax WG-1 has measurements of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic G3 versus Pentax WG-1 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are working with at that time. Here is the front view dimensions comparison of the G3 and the WG-1.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the G3 and WG-1 is 83 and 93 respectively.

Usually, it can be hard to visualize the contrast between sensor measurements purely by reviewing a spec sheet. The photograph below may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the G3 and WG-1.

As you can see, the two cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The G3 due to its larger sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF simpler and the Panasonic G3 will deliver extra detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop pics a little more aggressively.