Panasonic S3 vs Pentax WG-10

Its time to take a more detailed look at the Panasonic S3 vs Pentax WG-10, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Waterproof by brands Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the S3 (14MP) and the WG-10 (14MP) is relatively comparable and both cameras have the same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The S3 was introduced 3 years earlier than the WG-10 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before going straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a simple view of how the S3 scores versus the WG-10 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 and Pentax WG-10. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic S3 Gallery and Pentax WG-10 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry your camera, you need to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic S3 provides external measurements 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 WG-10 has specifications of 116mm x 59mm x 29mm (4.6" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic S3 vs Pentax WG-10 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have at the time. The following is a front view proportions comparison of the S3 and the WG-10.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the S3 and WG-10 is 96 and 93 respectively.

More often than not, it is hard to imagine the gap in sensor sizing simply by seeing technical specs. The visual here should offer you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the S3 and WG-10.

As you have seen, both the cameras have the same sensor dimensions and the identical resolution so you should expect comparable quality of pictures but you will need to consider the release date of the cameras into account. The older S3 will be disadvantaged in sensor technology.