Panasonic ZS3 vs Pentax WG-1

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Panasonic ZS3 and Pentax WG-1, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Waterproof by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. There is a large difference between the resolutions of the ZS3 (10MP) and WG-1 (14MP) but they feature the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The ZS3 was revealed 21 months prior to the WG-1 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting in to a complete comparison, below is a short summation of how the ZS3 grades vs the WG-1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 & Pentax Optio WG-1. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS3 Gallery & Pentax WG-1 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry your camera regularly, you are going to need to think about its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS3 offers outside dimensions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Pentax WG-1 has proportions of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic ZS3 and Pentax WG-1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Below is the front view dimension comparison of the ZS3 against the WG-1.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the ZS3 and WG-1 is 91 and 93 respectively.

Generally, it is hard to visualize the gap between sensor sizing simply by reading technical specs. The visual underneath will help provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the ZS3 and WG-1.

As you can tell, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You can expect the Pentax WG-1 to deliver more detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop pictures far more aggressively. The older ZS3 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.