Panasonic ZS50 vs Pentax WG-1

On this page, we will be contrasting the Panasonic ZS50 versus Pentax WG-1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Waterproof by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. The image resolution of the ZS50 (12MP) and the WG-1 (14MP) is relatively well matched and both cameras posses the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The ZS50 was announced 3 years later than the WG-1 and that is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving into a thorough comparison, here is a quick summation of how the ZS50 matches up versus the WG-1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50 and Pentax Optio WG-1. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZS50 Gallery and Pentax WG-1 Gallery.

If you are aiming to lug around your camera, you will want to think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic ZS50 offers physical 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 WG-1 has dimensions of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Check the Panasonic ZS50 versus Pentax WG-1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have attached at that time. Underneath is a front view dimensions comparison of the ZS50 and the WG-1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZS50 and WG-1 is 90 and 93 respectively.

Quite often, it's tough to see the gap between sensor measurements purely by checking technical specs. The graphic here will help provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS50 and WG-1.

As you can tell, each of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same megapixels. You should count on the Pentax WG-1 to resolve greater detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop pictures more aggressively. The more modern ZS50 is going to have an edge with regard to sensor tech.