Panasonic GH1 vs Pentax W90

Here is a in-depth overview of the Panasonic GH1 vs Pentax W90, former being a Advanced Mirrorless while the other is a Waterproof by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the GH1 (12MP) and the W90 (12MP) is fairly similar but the GH1 (Four Thirds) and W90 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor size.

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The GH1 was unveiled 7 months prior to the W90 which means that they are both of a similar age. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic GH1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax W90 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight into a in depth comparison, below is a short summation of how the GH1 grades against the W90 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1 & Pentax Optio W90. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic GH1 Gallery & Pentax W90 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera often, you'll need to think about its weight and volume. The Panasonic GH1 comes with outside dimensions of 124mm x 90mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 1.8") having a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) while the Pentax W90 has sizing of 108mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.0") along with a weight of 164 grams (0.36 lbs).

See the Panasonic GH1 vs Pentax W90 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Here is the front view over all size comparison of the GH1 against the W90.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the GH1 and W90 is 81 and 94 respectively.

Normally, it is tough to visualise the difference between sensor sizing merely by reading specifications. The visual here should offer you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the GH1 and W90.

To sum up, each of the cameras offer the same exact megapixels but not the same sensor sizing. The GH1 provides the larger sensor which will make getting shallower DOF simpler. The older GH1 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.