Pentax W80 vs Pentax WG-1 GPS

Here, we will be looking at the Pentax W80 and Pentax WG-1 GPS, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Waterproof and both are produced by Pentax. The image resolution of the W80 (12MP) and the WG-1 GPS (14MP) is pretty close and both cameras boast the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The W80 was unveiled 3 years prior to the WG-1 GPS and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go into a more detailed comparison, here is a concise overview of how the W80 grades against the WG-1 GPS with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax Optio W80 and Pentax Optio WG-1 GPS. The full galleries are viewable at Pentax W80 Gallery and Pentax WG-1 GPS Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera, you will want to factor in its weight and size. The Pentax W80 has outer measurements of 100mm x 56mm x 25mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") along with a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs) while the Pentax WG-1 GPS has specifications of 116mm x 59mm x 29mm (4.6" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Check the Pentax W80 and Pentax WG-1 GPS in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have chosen at that time. Underneath is a front view sizing comparison of the W80 compared to the WG-1 GPS.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the W80 and WG-1 GPS is 94 and 93 respectively.

Quite often, it is hard to visualize the gap in sensor sizing only by looking through specs. The photograph underneath will provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the W80 and WG-1 GPS.

All in all, both cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit different MP. You should expect the Pentax WG-1 GPS to result in more detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots way more aggressively. The older W80 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.