Panasonic S3 vs Pentax W90

Lets look more closely at the Panasonic S3 and Pentax W90, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Waterproof by companies Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the S3 (14MP) and the W90 (12MP) is pretty similar and both cameras posses the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The S3 was launched 11 months later than the W90 so they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving right into a detailed comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the S3 grades vs the W90 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 and Pentax Optio W90. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic S3 Gallery and Pentax W90 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera frequently, you need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic S3 has got outside dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") along with a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs) while the Pentax W90 has measurements of 108mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.0") and a weight of 164 grams (0.36 lbs).

Analyze the Panasonic S3 and Pentax W90 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you select at the time. The following is a front view scale comparison of the S3 compared to the W90.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S3 and W90 is 96 and 94 respectively.

Quite often, it's difficult to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing simply by reading specifications. The graphic underneath should offer you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the S3 and W90.

Plainly, both of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different resolution. You should expect the Panasonic S3 to deliver extra detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop photographs more aggressively. The more modern S3 provides an edge in sensor technology.