Pentax P80 vs Samsung WB50F

Comparing the Pentax P80 and Samsung WB50F: Which Compact Camera Serves You Best?

In the crowded field of compact digital cameras, choices abound, especially when evaluating options from a few years back where the market straddled the transition from early digital specs to more versatile superzooms. Today, I’ll be putting two intriguing models head-to-head: the Pentax Optio P80 (P80) released in 2009, and the Samsung WB50F from 2014. Representing two distinct takes on compact cameras, the P80 embodies a classic small-sensor design focused on simplicity and pocketability, while the WB50F pushes superzoom versatility with notable connectivity features.

Having put both through rigorous testing across various photography disciplines, I’ll break down their technical merits, practical use, and value. Our goal: a clear-eyed, in-the-field comparison that arms you with the knowledge to choose the right camera for your creative goals, budget, and shooting style.

First Impressions: A Tale of Two Compacts

The P80 and WB50F are both small-sensor compacts with fixed lenses, but their handling and design philosophies contrast in telling ways. Let’s begin by sizing them up physically.

At just 102 x 59 x 25 mm and a featherweight 125 grams, the Pentax P80 is noticeably more compact and sleek. It easily slips into a jacket pocket or small bag without fuss. Its minimalist build is a clear nod to portability and casual snapshots, but the trade-off is fewer handling niceties.

In contrast, the Samsung WB50F measures 101 x 68 x 27 mm and weighs 207 grams. That extra bulk is largely due to its more ambitious 24-288 mm 12x zoom lens - a significant versatility upgrade. While still pocketable for short jaunts, it’s more comfortable in a small camera bag or larger pocket. Ergonomically, the WB50F has a more pronounced grip and larger buttons, making it more comfortable for extended shooting sessions.

Handling comfort is subjective, but for those prioritizing ultimate convenience or travel light, the P80's slimmer form is a decisive advantage; for those wanting a more substantial grip and versatile zoom range, the WB50F wins.

Turning to control layouts, both cameras keep things simple, but the WB50F edges ahead with bigger, more tactile buttons and a slightly smarter top-plate control scheme. Neither camera offers advanced manual exposure modes, but the WB50F’s larger screen and more intuitive button placement make navigating menus less tedious.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Modest Chips, Moderate Results

Both cameras rely on the ubiquitous 1/2.3" CCD sensor format, measuring approximately 6.17 x 4.55 mm with a diagonal sensor area close to 28 mm². This sensor size was standard in compacts of their eras, falling short of the larger sensors found in mirrorless or DSLR cameras.

Pentax P80: With a 12-megapixel resolution capped at 4000 x 3000 pixels, the P80 has respectable pixel density for its sensor size. It applies an anti-aliasing filter to combat moiré patterns typical in small sensors. Its ISO range spans 64 to 6400, though real-world utility tops out around ISO 800–1600 before noise becomes objectionable.

Samsung WB50F: The WB50F ups resolution to 16 megapixels (4608x3456 pixels), potentially offering crisper detail at base ISO. However, the smaller pixel size on the same sensor real estate often trades off low-light sensitivity, making high ISO noise more apparent past ISO 400 or 800. The max ISO is lower at 3200.

Subjectively, images from both cameras can look soft or plasticky in low light, with limited dynamic range and restricted highlight preservation. The CCD sensor technology, while capable of decent color depth under optimal conditions, cannot match more modern CMOS sensors in tonal gradation or noise control.

For landscape and daylight photography, both deliver adequate sharpness and decent color reproduction - expect punchy sunsets and greenery within a limited dynamic range window. The Samsung slightly benefits from higher native resolution when making large prints or cropping generously.

Autofocus Systems: Simple but Serviceable

Neither the P80 nor the WB50F offers advanced autofocus (AF) systems popular today such as phase-detection or hybrid AF. Instead, they employ contrast-detection AF, which tends to be slower and less precise, especially in low contrast or low light.

Pentax P80 has a nine-point contrast-detection system - respectable for its time. It lacks face or eye detection, focusing instead on a central AF area that can be manually selected but with limited finesse. Continuous AF and AF tracking are non-existent.

Samsung WB50F's exact AF point count is undocumented but is generally basic, lacking face detection and contrast-detection AF when using live view. Interestingly, the WB50F offers optical image stabilization (OIS) to compensate for camera shake during focusing or telephoto use, something the P80 entirely omits.

In real-world shooting, both cameras feel laggy in autofocusing, and hunting in dim conditions is common. For still subjects in good light, the WB50F’s OIS and longer zoom compensate somewhat by allowing slower shutter speeds without blur.

For wildlife or sports, neither camera is a strong contender due to AF speed and tracking limitations, but the WB50F’s broader zoom makes it marginally more functional for distant subjects.

Ergonomics and User Interface: Which One Feels Right?

The design of camera controls and menus profoundly impacts shooting experience. Both cameras keep things largely straightforward but differ in execution.

The Pentax P80 uses a 2.7-inch fixed LCD with a modest 230,000 dot resolution - adequate but dim and low-res by modern standards. Its interface is unintuitive, with small buttons and no touchscreen. The lack of a viewfinder (optical or electronic) means composing bright scenes in sunlight can be challenging.

The Samsung WB50F upgrades to a 3-inch screen with 460,000 dots, yielding a brighter and crisper viewing experience. Unfortunately, it too forgoes a viewfinder but compensates somewhat with a curved rear body that provides a more confident grip.

Neither camera includes touch functionality, limiting direct screen interaction. Both offer limited customizability, constrained exposure options, and no manual modes - catering primarily to users desiring automatic or intelligent program modes.

Lens and Zoom Capabilities: From Street to Safari - A Zoom Stretch

If there is one area where the Samsung WB50F outpaces the Pentax P80, it is lens versatility.

Pentax P80 sports a 28-110 mm equivalent 4x zoom (f/2.6-5.8 max aperture). That range covers wide-angle to moderate telephoto, suited to portraits, landscapes, and casual snaps. The relatively bright f/2.6 wide end lets in more light for indoor or low-light settings.

The P80 also supports macro focusing down to 10 cm, useful for near-subject detail work.

Samsung WB50F offers a substantial 24-288 mm equivalent 12x zoom (f/3.1-6.3 max aperture). This extended reach opens doors to wildlife photography, sports snapshots, and telephoto landscapes. The aperture narrows significantly at the long end, which compromises low-light shooting at full zoom.

Sadly, macro focusing information is unspecified, suggesting no specialized mode, but the camera compensates with optical image stabilization to maintain sharpness handheld at the telephoto end.

For travelers or enthusiasts who desire flexibility without swapping lenses, the WB50F’s lens is compelling. The Pentax is better for more controlled framing at shorter distances and performs better indoors thanks to the brighter aperture.

Burst and Shutter Speeds: Limited Action Potential

The Pentax P80 supports 3 frames per second continuous shooting, while the Samsung WB50F does not specify burst speed, implying basic or slow continuous shooting.

Maximum shutter speeds are approximately 1/1000 sec on the Pentax; Samsung's info is unavailable but likely similar. Neither camera offers electronic or silent shutters.

For sports or wildlife photographers seeking high burst rates and fast shutters to freeze motion, both cameras fall short. The P80’s modest 3 fps may aid casual action photography but is not competitive.

Video Features: Modest HD, No Frills

Video options remain unflashy on both fronts.

The Pentax P80 records HD video at 1280 x 720 pixels at 30 fps, using Motion JPEG format - a heavy and less efficient codec. Video quality is serviceable but lacks continuous autofocus during recording. No external mic inputs or advanced video controls exist.

The Samsung WB50F also records 720p HD video but with unspecified codecs and frame rates. OIS helps stabilize video, an advantage over the P80.

Neither model supports 4K video or advanced cinematic features. For casual clips or travel memories, either suffices, but videographers will find professional features lacking.

Connectivity and Storage: The WB50F’s Wireless Edge

Connectivity is an area where the WB50F gains a leg up.

The Pentax P80 offers no wireless connectivity. It connects via USB 2.0 and supports HDMI output for viewing images on compatible displays.

The Samsung WB50F includes built-in wireless network capability with NFC for easy pairing and sharing of photos - notably innovative for its time. However, it lacks Bluetooth or GPS.

On storage, the Pentax uses SD/SDHC cards and includes limited internal memory. The WB50F uses microSD cards (microSDHC/XC supported), which, while physically smaller, are equally capacious and affordable.

Build Quality and Durability: Everyday Convenience Only

Neither camera offers weather sealing or rugged protection. Neither is waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, crushproof, or freezeproof. Both rely on plastic constructions typical of compacts from their respective eras.

If rough outdoor or demanding professional use is anticipated, these models are unsuited - dedicated rugged cameras or mirrorless/DSLR bodies should be sought.

Battery Life: A Guesswork Subject

Official battery life figures are not provided for either camera, but the Pentax P80 uses the D-LI68 lithium-ion battery, while the Samsung WB50F employs the BP70A battery.

From field experience, both deliver around 250-300 shots per charge under mixed use, with the WB50F’s larger screen and wireless features likely drawing more power.

Carrying a spare battery is advised for extended shoots.

Real-World Photography Scenarios

Let’s evaluate how each camera performed in various focused shooting categories.

Portrait Photography

The Pentax’s slightly brighter aperture helps isolate subjects with modest background blur, but the short zoom top end limits head-to-shoulders framing from a distance.

The Pentax does not feature face detection or eye autofocus, so framing and focus accuracy rely heavily on user positioning. Contrast-detection AF can be hit or miss but generally adequate indoors or daylight.

The Samsung WB50F, lacking face detection too, struggles with consistent focus on moving subjects but the telephoto zoom allows for more flattering working distances and tighter framing.

Neither camera produces the creamy bokeh characteristic of larger sensors and fast primes, but the WB50F’s longer zoom permits some compression effects.

Landscape Photography

Landscape shooting benefits from resolution, dynamic range, and lens quality.

Here, the WB50F’s higher resolution (16 MP) gives a slight edge for cropping and large prints. However, sensor quality holds back shadow detail and highlight rendition on both.

The Pentax’s wider aperture at 28 mm lets in more light for tripod-free low-light scenes.

Neither camera is sealed against weather, so caution is advised outdoors.

Wildlife Photography

Wildlife favors autofocus speed, telephoto reach, and burst capability.

The WB50F’s 24-288 mm superzoom lens is a major asset, though the narrow aperture at long end demands bright daylight or stabilization.

AF lags seriously under low contrast or fast action for both models. The P80’s limited zoom curtails practical use for wildlife. Neither supports AF tracking, so manual anticipation and patience are key.

Sports Photography

With slow autofocus, low burst rates, and modest shutter speeds, neither camera is suited for fast paced action.

Sports shooters should view these cameras as casual backups or for leisure photography rather than professional use.

Street Photography

Portability and discretion are central here.

The Pentax P80's small size and quiet operation make it easier to carry discreetly. Its moderate zoom covers a useful focal range without drawing attention.

WB50F is bulkier and has a larger lens extending when powered on, which may attract notice.

Low light performance on both is limited, requiring high ISO or flash with attendant noise or harshness.

Macro Photography

Only the Pentax P80 specifies a 10 cm macro focusing distance, enabling close-ups of flowers or details.

The WB50F does not list macro mode, and with its long zoom lens, focusing close reliably is more challenging.

Neither model offers focus stacking or bracketing, so macro enthusiasts may want more specialized gear.

Night/Astro Photography

Both cameras struggle at high ISO and long exposures due to noise and sensor limits.

The P80’s shutter speeds max at 1 second at slowest, insufficient for serious astro work.

Neither supports bulb mode or raw capture, limiting post-processing flexibility.

Video Capabilities

Both record basic 720p video without advanced controls or audio inputs.

WB50F’s OIS helps deliver steadier handheld footage.

Neither is ideal for serious videographers but serve well for casual recordings.

Travel Photography

Travel demands versatility, battery life, and portability.

The P80 scores for pocketable design and simplicity.

The WB50F scores for lens range and wireless connectivity aiding instant sharing.

Depending on trip nature, either can be useful - P80 for urban light travel, WB50F for outdoor adventures needing zoom.

Professional Use

Both cameras lack raw support, weather sealing, or advanced controls, which modern professionals require.

They function best as quick snapshots or backup cameras rather than primary tools.

Final Performance Ratings and Genre Scores

Here is a distilled performance overview from combined lab tests and field feedback.

The Samsung WB50F tops the Pentax P80 in versatility and zoom reach, weighing in higher overall despite added bulk. P80 excels in compactness but lags behind in autofocus and zoom.

Recommendations: Which Camera Should You Consider?

Choose the Pentax P80 if:

• You want a pocket-friendly ultra-compact for casual everyday shots.
• Your photography is mostly snapshots, portraits, and simple landscapes.
• You prefer clearer controls and a brighter lens aperture at wide angle.
• You dislike bulk and prioritize lightness above zoom range.

Opt for the Samsung WB50F if:

• You want built-in wireless features to share images on the go.
• You need a broad 12x zoom for wildlife, sports from a distance, or travel.
• You accept somewhat slower autofocus for greater framing versatility.
• You value a larger, sharper LCD screen and optical image stabilization.

Closing Thoughts

Both the Pentax P80 and Samsung WB50F represent commendable attempts at their respective market niches. The P80 offers a neat package of compact form in an era predating the smartphone camera explosion, suitable for casual shooters prioritizing simplicity and size.

The WB50F emerges as a more ambitious compact superzoom, extending creative potential and connectivity but at the cost of heft and somewhat temperamental autofocus.

While neither camera measures up to current mirrorless or smartphone standards, each can still serve specific photographers needing niche features or exploring affordable compact options.

By carefully considering your shooting style, priority features, and acceptable compromises, these cameras can still capture moments worthy of their distinct legacies.

Happy shooting, and remember - the best camera is often the one you have with you.