Pentax RZ18 vs Pentax W80

In this article, we are comparing the Pentax RZ18 and Pentax W80, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact and both are built by Pentax. There exists a big gap among the resolutions of the RZ18 (16MP) and W80 (12MP) but they feature the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The RZ18 was brought out 2 years later than the W80 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go straight into a thorough comparison, below is a quick overview of how the RZ18 matches up vs the W80 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax Optio RZ18 and Pentax Optio W80. The entire galleries are available at Pentax RZ18 Gallery and Pentax W80 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera often, you will need to think about its weight and dimensions. The Pentax RZ18 offers external measurements of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs) and the Pentax W80 has dimensions of 100mm x 56mm x 25mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") accompanied by a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs).

Compare the Pentax RZ18 and Pentax W80 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are using at that time. Underneath is the front view proportions comparison of the RZ18 versus the W80.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the RZ18 and W80 is 92 and 94 respectively.

Quite often, it is difficult to see the gap in sensor sizing merely by looking through a spec sheet. The photograph below may provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the RZ18 and W80.

Clearly, each of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same MP. You should expect to see the Pentax RZ18 to result in more detail having its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop photos a little more aggressively. The newer RZ18 will have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.