Panasonic ZS60 vs Pentax WS80

The following is a in depth overview of the Panasonic ZS60 and Pentax WS80, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Waterproof by competitors Panasonic and Pentax. There is a crucial difference among the resolutions of the ZS60 (18MP) and WS80 (10MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The ZS60 was brought out 6 years after the WS80 which is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple view of how the ZS60 scores against the WS80 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS60 and Pentax Optio WS80. The entire galleries are available at Panasonic ZS60 Gallery and Pentax WS80 Gallery.

If you're aiming to travel with your camera frequently, you should factor in its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZS60 features external measurements of 112mm x 64mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.5") having a weight of 282 grams (0.62 lbs) whilst the Pentax WS80 has proportions of 92mm x 60mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.4" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic ZS60 and Pentax WS80 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are using at the time. The following is a front view sizing comparison of the ZS60 versus the WS80.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the ZS60 and WS80 is 88 and 95 respectively.

Generally, it is difficult to visualise the gap in sensor dimensions only by viewing specs. The picture here might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS60 and WS80.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same resolution. You should expect the Panasonic ZS60 to render extra detail having its extra 8MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop pictures more aggressively. The more modern ZS60 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.