Panasonic ZS50 vs Pentax WS80

On this page, we will be comparing the Panasonic ZS50 versus Pentax WS80, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Waterproof by companies Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the ZS50 (12MP) and the WS80 (10MP) is pretty similar and both cameras boast the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The ZS50 was revealed 5 years after the WS80 which is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a concise view of how the ZS50 grades against the WS80 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50 and Pentax Optio WS80. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic ZS50 Gallery and Pentax WS80 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry around your camera, you need to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic ZS50 has external measurements of 111mm x 65mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.3") and a weight of 243 grams (0.54 lbs) while the Pentax WS80 has specifications of 92mm x 60mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.4" x 0.9") with a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

See the Panasonic ZS50 versus Pentax WS80 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you use at that time. Underneath is a front view sizing comparison of the ZS50 and the WS80.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the ZS50 and WS80 is 90 and 95 respectively.

Often, it is very hard to see the gap between sensor sizes merely by reviewing technical specs. The pic below will give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS50 and WS80.

As you can tell, both of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same megapixels. You should expect the Panasonic ZS50 to deliver extra detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more recent ZS50 is going to have an edge in sensor tech.