Panasonic ZS1 vs Pentax W90

Below is a complete comparison of the Panasonic ZS1 versus Pentax W90, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Waterproof by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the ZS1 (10MP) and the W90 (12MP) is very comparable but the ZS1 (1/2.5") and W90 (1/2.3") possess different sensor dimensions.

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The ZS1 was announced 9 months before the W90 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a step-by-step comparison, below is a short view of how the ZS1 grades against the W90 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1 and Pentax Optio W90. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic ZS1 Gallery and Pentax W90 Gallery.

When you are aiming to lug around your camera, you need to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS1 provides exterior measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Pentax W90 has specifications of 108mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.0") and a weight of 164 grams (0.36 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic ZS1 versus Pentax W90 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have during that time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the ZS1 compared to the W90.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the ZS1 and W90 is 91 and 94 respectively.

Quite often, it is hard to visualize the gap in sensor measurements merely by seeing a spec sheet. The photograph here may give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS1 and W90.

As you can see, the 2 cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The ZS1 using its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallow depth of field trickier and the Pentax W90 will provide more detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop images a little more aggressively. The older ZS1 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.