Panasonic LZ40 vs Pentax WS80

Here is a thorough analysis of the Panasonic LZ40 and Pentax WS80, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Waterproof by rivals Panasonic and Pentax. There is a crucial difference between the resolutions of the LZ40 (20MP) and WS80 (10MP) but both cameras have the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

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The LZ40 was unveiled 4 years later than the WS80 and that is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic LZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Pentax WS80 being a Compact camera.

Before delving into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise introduction of how the LZ40 grades vs the WS80 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ40 and Pentax Optio WS80. The full galleries are available at Panasonic LZ40 Gallery and Pentax WS80 Gallery.

In case you're going to carry your camera regularly, you need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic LZ40 features external measurements of 126mm x 87mm x 94mm (5.0" x 3.4" x 3.7") and a weight of 524 grams (1.16 lbs) whilst the Pentax WS80 has measurements of 92mm x 60mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.4" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic LZ40 and Pentax WS80 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Following is a front view sizing comparison of the LZ40 compared to the WS80.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the LZ40 and WS80 is 67 and 95 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizing merely by reading through technical specs. The visual underneath may offer you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the LZ40 and WS80.

As you have seen, each of these cameras feature the identical sensor size but not the same MP. You should expect to see the Panasonic LZ40 to give you extra detail having an extra 10MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop images way more aggressively. The younger LZ40 is going to have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.