Panasonic GF1 vs Pentax WS80

In this write-up, we will be matching up the Panasonic GF1 vs Pentax WS80, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Waterproof by companies Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the GF1 (12MP) and the WS80 (10MP) is pretty well matched but the GF1 (Four Thirds) and WS80 (1/2.3") feature different sensor dimensions.

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The GF1 was introduced 3 months later than the WS80 so they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax WS80 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight into a detailed comparison, below is a brief summation of how the GF1 grades against the WS80 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 and Pentax Optio WS80. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic GF1 Gallery and Pentax WS80 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry your camera often, you will need to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic GF1 has got outside 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 WS80 has sizing of 92mm x 60mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.4" x 0.9") and a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic GF1 vs Pentax WS80 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have at that moment. Here is the front view dimension comparison of the GF1 against the WS80.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the GF1 and WS80 is 85 and 95 respectively.

Oftentimes, its tough to picture the contrast between sensor sizing simply by looking at technical specs. The graphic below will provide you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the GF1 and WS80.

As you can tell, each of the cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The GF1 using its bigger sensor is going to make achieving bokeh simpler and the Panasonic GF1 will resolve more detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will let you crop pictures far more aggressively.