Pentax W80 vs Ricoh WG-30W

In this write-up, we will be contrasting the Pentax W80 versus Ricoh WG-30W, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Waterproof by companies Pentax and Ricoh. There is a crucial difference between the resolutions of the W80 (12MP) and WG-30W (16MP) but they come with the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The W80 was revealed 6 years earlier than the WG-30W which is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting straight into a in depth comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the W80 matches up versus the WG-30W in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax Optio W80 and Ricoh WG-30W. The full galleries are provided at Pentax W80 Gallery and Ricoh WG-30W Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry around your camera regularly, you'll need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Pentax W80 offers exterior measurements of 100mm x 56mm x 25mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") accompanied by a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs) while the Ricoh WG-30W has proportions of 123mm x 62mm x 30mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 1.2") with a weight of 194 grams (0.43 lbs).

Look at the Pentax W80 versus Ricoh WG-30W in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you select at that time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the W80 vs the WG-30W.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the W80 and WG-30W is 94 and 91 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to picture the contrast between sensor sizes only by checking technical specs. The image here should offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the W80 and WG-30W.

As you have seen, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You should expect the Ricoh WG-30W to resolve greater detail because of its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also help you crop photographs far more aggressively. The more aged W80 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.