Pentax WG-1 GPS vs Sony A290

In this write-up, we will be analyzing the Pentax WG-1 GPS versus Sony A290, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Pentax and Sony. The sensor resolution of the WG-1 GPS (14MP) and the A290 (14MP) is relatively similar but the WG-1 GPS (1/2.3") and A290 (APS-C) use different sensor sizes.

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The WG-1 GPS was announced 15 months later than the A290 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Pentax WG-1 GPS being a Compact camera and the Sony A290 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving straight into a detailed comparison, below is a concise view of how the WG-1 GPS scores vs the A290 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax Optio WG-1 GPS and Sony Alpha DSLR-A290. The whole galleries are viewable at Pentax WG-1 GPS Gallery and Sony A290 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to lug around your camera regularly, you will need to think about its weight and measurements. The Pentax WG-1 GPS enjoys outer measurements of 116mm x 59mm x 29mm (4.6" x 2.3" x 1.1") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) whilst the Sony A290 has proportions of 128mm x 97mm x 86mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.4") and a weight of 549 grams (1.21 lbs).

Examine the Pentax WG-1 GPS versus Sony A290 in the latest Camera with 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 measurement comparison of the WG-1 GPS compared to the A290.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the WG-1 GPS and A290 is 93 and 66 respectively.

Generally, it can be tough to visualize the gap between sensor measurements just by reviewing specifications. The graphic here may give you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the WG-1 GPS and A290.

To sum up, both cameras offer the same exact MP albeit different sensor measurements. The WG-1 GPS uses the tinier sensor which will make obtaining shallow DOF more difficult. The more modern WG-1 GPS provides a benefit with regard to sensor tech.