Panasonic GF1 vs Pentax WG-2 GPS

Here, we are reviewing the Panasonic GF1 and Pentax WG-2 GPS, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Waterproof by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There is a huge difference among the resolutions of the GF1 (12MP) and WG-2 GPS (16MP) and the GF1 (Four Thirds) and WG-2 GPS (1/2.3") have different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The GF1 was manufactured 3 years before the WG-2 GPS which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax WG-2 GPS being a Compact camera.

Before going into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the GF1 grades against the WG-2 GPS with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 and Pentax Optio WG-2 GPS. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic GF1 Gallery and Pentax WG-2 GPS Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to travel with your camera often, you will want to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic GF1 has got exterior dimensions of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") having a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) whilst the Pentax WG-2 GPS has specifications of 122mm x 61mm x 30mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 1.2") along with a weight of 198 grams (0.44 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic GF1 and Pentax WG-2 GPS in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have at that time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the GF1 compared to the WG-2 GPS.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the GF1 and WG-2 GPS is 85 and 91 respectively.

Often, it's tough to imagine the difference in sensor dimensions purely by viewing specs. The image here may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the GF1 and WG-2 GPS.

All in all, the 2 cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The GF1 due to its larger sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field less difficult and the Pentax WG-2 GPS will result in extra detail due to its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The more aged GF1 will be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.