Panasonic ZS50 vs Pentax W90

Let's take a closer look at the Panasonic ZS50 vs Pentax W90, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Waterproof by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The resolution of the ZS50 (12MP) and the W90 (12MP) is relatively similar and both cameras offer the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The ZS50 was brought out 4 years after the W90 which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving into a detailed comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the ZS50 scores versus the W90 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50 and Pentax Optio W90. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic ZS50 Gallery and Pentax W90 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry around your camera often, you'll need to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic ZS50 enjoys external measurements of 111mm x 65mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.3") having a weight of 243 grams (0.54 lbs) and 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).

Check the Panasonic ZS50 vs Pentax W90 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you select at the time. Below is a front view dimension comparison of the ZS50 against the W90.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the ZS50 and W90 is 90 and 94 respectively.

Often, it can be hard to picture the contrast between sensor sizes purely by reading a spec sheet. The picture below might provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS50 and W90.

As you can see, the 2 cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the same exact resolution and you should expect similar quality of photos however you will need to take the production date of the products into consideration. The more recent ZS50 should have a benefit in sensor innovation.