Pentax K-1 vs Pentax W90

Here, we are reviewing the Pentax K-1 vs Pentax W90, former being a Advanced DSLR while the other is a Waterproof and both are created by Pentax. There is a substantial difference between the sensor resolutions of the K-1 (36MP) and W90 (12MP) and the K-1 (Full frame) and W90 (1/2.3") offer different sensor size.

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The K-1 was announced 6 years later than the W90 and that is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Pentax K-1 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Pentax W90 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the K-1 grades against the W90 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax K-1 & Pentax Optio W90. The whole galleries are available at Pentax K-1 Gallery & Pentax W90 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to carry your camera regularly, you should think about its weight and volume. The Pentax K-1 features outside dimensions of 137mm x 110mm x 86mm (5.4" x 4.3" x 3.4") accompanied by a weight of 1010 grams (2.23 lbs) whilst the Pentax W90 has sizing of 108mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.0") along with a weight of 164 grams (0.36 lbs).

Check the Pentax K-1 vs Pentax W90 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you have chosen during that time. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the K-1 against the W90.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the K-1 and W90 is 55 and 94 respectively.

Usually, it's difficult to imagine the gap between sensor sizing just by reading through a spec sheet. The visual below might provide you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the K-1 and W90.

Clearly, each of these cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The K-1 with its larger sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF simpler and the Pentax K-1 will give more detail with its extra 24MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop images way more aggressively. The younger K-1 provides a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.