Pentax MX-1 vs Pentax WG-3

Below is a comprehensive analysis of the Pentax MX-1 vs Pentax WG-3, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Waterproof and both of them are built by Pentax. There exists a sizeable gap among the sensor resolutions of the MX-1 (12MP) and WG-3 (16MP) and the MX-1 (1/1.7") and WG-3 (1/2.3") come with different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The MX-1 was launched at a similar time to the WG-3 and they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a in-depth comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the MX-1 grades vs the WG-3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax MX-1 and Pentax WG-3. The complete galleries are provided at Pentax MX-1 Gallery and Pentax WG-3 Gallery.

In case you're going to lug around your camera frequently, you will have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Pentax MX-1 provides physical measurements of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") having a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs) whilst the Pentax WG-3 has dimensions of 124mm x 64mm x 33mm (4.9" x 2.5" x 1.3") along with a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs).

See the Pentax MX-1 vs Pentax WG-3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you use during that time. Following is the front view measurement comparison of the MX-1 compared to the WG-3.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the MX-1 and WG-3 is 84 and 90 respectively.

Typically, it is tough to visualize the difference in sensor measurements merely by going through a spec sheet. The photograph below will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the MX-1 and WG-3.

Clearly, the 2 cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The MX-1 because of its bigger sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Pentax WG-3 will provide more detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots a little more aggressively.