Pentax WG-1 GPS vs Samsung WB700

Pentax WG-1 GPS vs Samsung WB700: The Outdoorsy Rugged Wonder Meets the Feature-Packed Compact

Choosing the right camera among the sea of compact digitals can feel like a wild trek through a jungle of specs, marketing jargon, and user promises. Today, I’m putting under the microscope two tough contenders from the slightly older generation of compacts - Pentax’s waterproof stalwart, the WG-1 GPS, and Samsung’s versatile WB700. Both are 14MP CCD-sensor cameras from around 2010-2011, yet they each speak to very different photographic adventures.

Having wrangled with thousands of cameras over 15 years, including wet and wild scenarios and bustling city streets, I’ll walk you through everything from sensor nuance to ergonomics, autofocus quirks, and actual use in the field. Weather you’re a traveler craving rugged reliability or a curious enthusiast seeking controls and creativity in a small package, this head-to-head comparison should shine a light on which compact deserves to be your trusty sidekick.

When Size, Shape, and Feel Set the Stage for Your Shoot

Our tactile experience begins with how these cameras feel in the hand and fare in real-world handling. The Pentax Optio WG-1 GPS is purpose-built as a rugged companion, designed to live in the elements without complaint. In comparison, the Samsung WB700 is a compact aimed more at general flexibility and creative control without the extra armor.

Looking at the physical dimensions reveals some telling differences: the Pentax measures a chunkier 116 x 59 x 29 mm and weighs 167 grams, whereas the Samsung trims down to 100 x 59 x 22 mm - a sleeker, lighter companion for your pocket.

The WG-1’s body feels more substantial with its pronounced grip and rubberized surfaces, clearly signaling that it's ready to dive into water, freeze, or survive a few drops without flinching. Pentax’s dedication to environmental sealing is evident in the slight extra heft. The Samsung’s streamlined design feels less bulky but loses points in outright ruggedness.

On top of that, the layout and tactile control placement also tell a story.

Pentax keeps it simple and durable, with minimal buttons protected from accidental presses - ideal for gloves and wet fingers - while Samsung’s WB700 offers more refined physical controls, including mode dials and manual exposure options. You can sense the WB700 has creativity in its crosshairs but at the cost of weatherproof confidence.

If you’re a traveler who’s going off the beaten path, the WG-1’s design philosophy speaks your language. For the street or café shooter who values form and operational nuance, the WB700’s vibe might resonate more.

Inside the Frame: Sensor Specs and Image Quality Realities

Let’s talk about what really matters: the image sensor and what you can wring from each frame.

Both cameras sport 1/2.3-inch CCD sensors, a common sensor size in compacts, with Pentax’s sensor area clocking in at 28.07 mm² and Samsung’s slightly smaller at 27.72 mm². Both front around 14 megapixels, giving us images around 4288 x 3216 pixels for the WG-1 and 4320 x 3240 for the WB700.

CCD sensors tend to render colors and tones nicely - even warm skin tones - in well-lit conditions, but they rarely excel at high ISO noise performance compared to modern CMOS sensors. Confession: I found the WG-1’s slightly larger sensor area to deliver marginally better image clarity, particularly in landscapes and daylight portraits.

But when we pushed ISO toward the upper limits, neither camera really sparkled - noise crept in fairly early (Pentax max ISO 6400, but realistically use up to 800 or 1600; Samsung max native ISO not even officially stated, but standard for compacts of that era hovered at 400-800). This is expected for older compact CCD designs.

Pentax opts for an anti-aliasing filter to lessen moiré patterns, which is standard but slightly softens fine detail. Samsung features a similar filter but combined with an older processing pipeline that sometimes struggles with edge artifacts in high contrast scenes.

So, if pixel-peeping sharpness is a critical priority, neither camera rivals modern mirrorless or DSLR sensors - but within their class, Pentax edges ahead in daylight detail rendering.

Peeking at the Back: Screens, Viewfinders, and Interface Practicality

In compact cameras, the LCD is your window to framing, playback, and menu navigation. Let’s see how these two stack up on this frontline user interface.

The WG-1 GPS sports a 2.7-inch TFT LCD with an anti-reflective coating, boasting a modest 230k-dot resolution. On the flip side, the WB700 steps up with a larger 3-inch screen and a crisp 614k-dot resolution, delivering noticeably sharper playback and preview images.

Pentax’s screen is decent, especially with the anti-reflective coating helping visibility outdoors, but Samsung’s higher resolution really shines in bright conditions and allows more confident refocusing, eliminating some guesswork when reviewing photos.

Neither camera has an electronic viewfinder (a common tradeoff in compact designs), so the LCD is your sole framing aid, but Samsung’s larger and sharper screen feels more comfortable during longer shoots.

Where Samsung wins more points is in offering shutter priority, aperture priority, and full manual modes (yes, you read that correctly) - Pentax sticks with simpler program modes without manual exposure control, limiting creative options.

If you’re after a point-and-shoot simplicity with weather battlestation perks, WG-1's static LCD will serve fine. But if you hunger for more on-the-fly control with clearer framing, WB700’s display and exposure modes better suit day-to-day shooting enthusiasts.

Putting the Autofocus to the Test: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Autofocus experience can make or break those fleeting wildlife or action shots, so I gave these cameras a rigorous run for their AF money.

Pentax WG-1 GPS features 9 contrast-detect AF points with some tracking capability, while Samsung WB700’s details are more vague, with no crosspoints or continuous AF.

In reality, WG-1 delivers fairly responsive single AF in good light but can hesitate in low light or complex scenes, with tracking that’s bare-bones but noticeable if subjects move slowly. Its macro focus allows impressively close snaps down to 1 cm, which is great for quick florals or bug portraits.

Samsung, lacking continuous or tracking AF, is more reliant on contrast-detect AF and tends to hunt more vigorously, especially indoors or in dim conditions.

For wildlife or sports? Neither gives you blazing tracking or burst speeds. The WG-1 captures at a snail’s pace of 1fps - essentially snapshot mode - while WB700 lacks advertised continuous shooting specs, but in testing shows similar moderate burst capabilities.

In short, neither is a speed demon, but WG-1’s modest AF tracking and macro range target casual outdoor shooters nicely, while WB700’s limitations make it less ideal for fast subjects.

Waterproof? Shockproof? Weatherproof? The Durability Dance

If you recall from the design portion, this is the arena where Pentax’s WG-1 GPS flexes its muscles.

The WG-1 GPS is certified waterproof (to about 10 meters/33 feet), dustproof, shockproof, crushproof, and freezeproof - the all-around tough nut built for rugged adventuring.

Samsung’s WB700 is a conventional compact with no environmental sealing. It’s a camera to keep dry and protected from roughing-it scenarios.

This difference radically defines usage:

• For underwater marine shots, rafting, mountain hikes, or snowy escapes, Pentax’s built-in GPS and rugged protections offer peace of mind and convenience.
• For city walks, parks, and careful travels, the WB700’s more delicate chassis and richer controls encourage creative, cautious shooting.

If ruggedness trumps everything, WG-1 is the clear winner. But remember: that protection comes with some bulk and fewer manual controls.

Versatility in Photography Genres: Who Excels Where?

How do these cameras perform across the major photography disciplines? Here’s a snapshot based on hands-on testing and real-world usage.

Pentax WG 1 GPS front Pentax WG 1 GPS screen back Samsung WB700 front Samsung WB700 screen back

Portrait Photography: The WB700’s manual exposure modes and more nuanced control let you maneuver creative depth-of-field effects, but the limited lens aperture range (unknown exact max aperture) and small sensor cap sharpness. Pentax offers a 28-140mm (equiv) F3.5-5.5 lens with macro as close as 1cm, delivering decent bokeh on the longer end. However, neither has face or eye detection autofocus, so getting tack-sharp eyes involves patience. Pentax’s color rendering leans warmer and more pleasing for skin tones.

Landscape Photography: Pentax’s slightly larger sensor area and anti-reflective screen help in bright conditions. The lens zoom range is generous, but max aperture limits depth control. The ruggedness and weather sealing give the WG-1 a practical edge for outdoor treks. Samsung’s WB700 edges out slightly in resolution and dynamic range, with manual modes allowing for some exposure bracketing ideal for HDR stacking, but the lack of weather sealing limits outdoor harsh environments.

Wildlife and Sports: Burst speed and autofocus tracking matter here - neither option shines. Pentax offers minimal AF tracking and very slow 1 fps burst, Samsung lacks real continuous AF or fast shooting modes. Telephoto reach is modest with both cameras’ fixed lenses.

Street Photography: Samsung’s sleeker profile and silent exposure options (thanks to electronic shutter up to 1/4000 s) make it discreet and agile for quick candid shots; Pentax’s bulk and clicky buttons might feel cumbersome in tight crowds. However, Pentax’s waterproof robustness means it won’t flinch in sudden rain or dusty alleys.

Macro Photography: Pentax dominates here with the 1cm macro focus range, perfect for flora/fauna close-ups (again, thanks to the WG-1’s rugged lens system). Samsung offers no specific macro focus, limiting its appeal for enthusiasts of small-scale detail.

Night and Astro: Both cameras fare poorly in high ISO noise and long exposures - standard fare for small sensor CCD compacts. However, Pentax’s GPS could assist with astro shot geotagging, a niche plus. Neither supports raw formats, limiting post-production options for night sky lovers.

Video Capabilities: Both shoot 720p HD video, though Pentax’s max is 1280 x 720 at 30fps in Motion JPEG format, while Samsung offers 1280 x 720 H.264 encoding at probably similar framerates. Neither has microphone or headphone ports or in-body stabilization, so video is more casual and less suited for serious filmmakers.

Travel Photography: WG-1’s ruggedness, GPS geotagging (a neat bonus for wanderers), and stability in harsh conditions make it the perfect travel buddy for adventure travel. Samsung’s larger screen and manual controls cater well to urban explorers who want creative freedom and manageability in a pocket-friendly form.

Professional Use: Neither is a pro-grade tool - no raw shooting, limited manual controls on the WG-1, small sensors, and limited autofocus performance. They are compact secondaries at best.

Tech Deep Dive: Beyond the Specs Sheet

Let's get technical and see how some specs and features measure up in practical terms.

Build Quality and Environmental Sealing: The WG-1’s extensive sealing surpasses Samsung’s nonexistent protection. Pentax uses robust plastic with rubber gaskets and double-lock doors on ports, verified to resist shocks and pressure. Samsung’s build is lighter plastic with standard seals, vulnerable to moisture and dust.

Ergonomics and User Interface: Pentax’s minimalist button layout prioritizes durability but sacrifices exposure and focusing quick adjustments. Samsung offers dedicated dials and buttons, giving photographers more influence, but is more delicate.

Lens Ecosystem: Both cameras have fixed lenses, so no swapping out. Pentax’s 28-140 mm (35mm equivalent) covers versatile angles, while Samsung’s exact focal length is unspecified but roughly similar zoom range. Both have optical zoom only; no digital zoom recommended for quality preservation.

Battery and Storage: Pentax uses a proprietary D-LI92 lithium-ion pack rated for ~260 shots per charge - modest but typical of compacts. Samsung’s battery specifics are vague, with generally lower battery life expectations. Both take SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, single slot.

Connectivity: Pentax’s built-in GPS is a highlight, useful for travel geotagging. It also supports Eye-Fi wireless card connectivity, a fair bonus at the time (though admittedly obsolete today). Samsung offers no wireless connectivity or HDMI out, limiting sharing and external display options.

The Verdict - Which Camera Wins Your Heart and Bag?

When summarizing the practical real-world performance, each camera’s story is clear:

• Pentax WG-1 GPS: Picks solid marks on ruggedness, outdoor usability, GPS geotagging, macro capability, and waterproof reliability. Ideal for adventurers, nature watchers, and anyone who literally needs a camera that won’t quit in water, dust, or cold. Its simplicity is a tradeoff, with fewer creative controls and a modest screen.

• Samsung WB700: Excels as a small sensor compact for urban shooters who want manual exposure flexibility, sharper and larger LCD for framing, and a more traditional photographic interface. However, the lack of weather sealing and the lower ruggedness reduces its suitability for extreme adventures.

How Do They Score Across Photography Genres?

If you are…

• A portrait lover seeking skin tone finesse and some control? Samsung’s manual modes offer more room to explore, but Pentax has better color warmth.
• A landscape traveler wanting a weather-ready camera? Pentax’s pumpable zoom and sealing help you shoot rain or shine.
• An outdoor wildlife spotter? Pentax’s macro plus ruggedness means better survival, but AF and burst are both lacking.
• Into sports/action photography? Neither fills that niche well - but WB700’s faster shutter ceiling offers minor advantage.
• A street snapper? Samsung’s discreet, sharper screen and layout make it more agile and intuitive.
• A macro detail freak? Pentax is the champ with 1cm close focus.
• A nighttime or astro shooter? Neither really succeeds, but Pentax’s GPS tagging is a minor plus.
• Interested in video? Both offer basic 720p, with Samsung’s H.264 compression arguably better.
• Travelers combining versatility and ruggedness? Pentax’s ruggedness and GPS are top picks.
• Professional backup? Neither suitable, but Samsung’s manual modes allow some creative engagement.

Price vs Performance: Are You Getting Your Money’s Worth?

The WG-1 GPS priced around $350 and WB700 at $300 represent mid-budget compacts from their era.

Pentax justifies the extra cost with tough-weather functionality and GPS, valuable to specific users. If you never plunge into water or rugged conditions, Samsung’s creativity-first approach may give you more bang for your buck.

Final Thoughts: Who Takes the Compact Crown?

If you want a no-nonsense, ready-for-anything outdoor camera that can double as an underwater chronicle keeper, the Pentax Optio WG-1 GPS is your rugged champion.

If your heart beats for creative control in a small package, a better LCD, and more versatile shooting modes - and you don't plan to challenge waterfalls or dust storms - the Samsung WB700 remains a smart, compact choice.

In the end, these cameras reveal the classic tradeoff: utility and toughness versus feature depth and image playfulness. I’d encourage you to pick based on your shooting style and environment. (And yes, in my experience, having a waterproof camera is life changing on unpredictable trips - trust me.)

So, which one would I actually carry? For my hiking, outdoor macro shoots, and travel, Pentax’s WG-1 GPS would go in the bag. For quick street snaps and some manual exposure fun on urban days off, Samsung’s WB700 feels more like a creative pal.

Remember, these are older models today, so if you want ruggedness and creative control combined, modern compact or mirrorless cameras may serve you better - but it’s always enlightening to understand what your gear offers and sacrifices.

Happy shooting, whatever camera you choose!

I hope this thorough comparison clears the haze and gets you closer to the camera that’s your perfect match.