Pentax WG-1 GPS vs. Sony NEX-3: An In-Depth Comparison for Photographers Seeking the Perfect Fit

As someone who has rigorously tested and compared hundreds - if not thousands - of cameras over the past 15 years, I know how critical it is to get the right tool for your photographic goals. The Pentax WG-1 GPS and the Sony NEX-3 represent two distinctly different approaches to image-making, catering to very different user priorities. One is a rugged, waterproof compact intended for action-packed outdoor use; the other, a pioneering entry-level mirrorless with interchangeable lenses and a large sensor aimed at enthusiasts stepping up their game.

This article will dissect both models beyond mere spec sheets. I’ll share insights from hands-on testing, technical analysis, and real-world application across multiple genres, ensuring you can confidently decide which camera aligns best with your creative needs and budget. Let’s dive in.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Ergonomics

One of the first things you notice when comparing these two is their physical makeup. The Pentax WG-1 GPS is a stout, compact point-and-shoot designed to withstand extreme conditions. By contrast, the Sony NEX-3 is a slim, rangefinder-style mirrorless camera with a modular system of interchangeable lenses.

Pentax WG-1 GPS: Its all-weather sealing - waterproof, shockproof, crushproof, dustproof, and freezeproof - makes it a go-anywhere companion, ideal for adventurous photographers. At 116 x 59 x 29 mm and weighing just 167 grams, it is comfortably pocketable, and rugged enough not to worry about the occasional drop or splash. The body uses tactile buttons, though the absence of a grip is noticeable if you have larger hands or plan to shoot for extended periods.

Sony NEX-3: This camera weighs 297 grams and measures 117 x 62 x 33 mm, making it compact but decidedly larger than the Pentax WG-1 GPS. Without a handle or dedicated grip, it demands careful hand-holding, especially when paired with larger lenses. However, the body’s minimalist design and rangefinder-style layout feel familiar and inviting to users transitioning from compact or DSLR cameras.

When it comes to handling, the WG-1’s single fixed lens and minimal controls might feel restrictive for those accustomed to full manual settings; however, its simple controls and tough build are perfect for spontaneous shooting in unpredictable environments. The Sony NEX-3 balances portability with controls that invite experimentation, thanks to its more extensive exposure options and interchangeable lens system.

Control Layout and User Interface: Simplicity vs. Flexibility

Design isn’t only about dimensions but also how intuitively the camera puts controls at your fingertips.

The WG-1 GPS sticks to the essentials: a standard shutter release, zoom toggle, and a few dedicated buttons for flash modes, exposure, and playback. This minimalism favors quick point-and-shoot use but lacks dedicated dials or customizable buttons that would appeal to power users. The small fixed lens means you’re essentially working within the constraints of a zoom range without much manual override.

Sony’s NEX-3 showcases a step up in control sophistication. While it lacks an electronic viewfinder, its 3-inch tilt-able 920k-dot screen (more on the screen soon) allows flexible shooting angles. Key exposure parameters (shutter speed, aperture, ISO) can be adjusted manually or through priority modes, enabling finer control. Though there’s no touchscreen, menu navigation and control dials are responsive and well laid out for a beginner to intermediate user.

This contrast highlights a fundamental difference in user experience philosophy: The Pentax WG-1 GPS embraces simplicity to withstand tough conditions, betting on durability over detailed settings. The Sony NEX-3, on the other hand, is a camera designed to teach and grow with the photographer’s skills.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Compact CCD Meets APS-C CMOS

Let’s get to perhaps the most critical technical difference - the sensors inside these cameras.

The Pentax WG-1 GPS houses a 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor, measuring a diminutive 6.17 x 4.55 mm with a 14-megapixel resolution. The CCD technology is tried-and-true but leaves some compromises in low-light sensitivity and dynamic range compared to the more advanced CMOS sensors in recent years.

The Sony NEX-3 sports an APS-C sized CMOS sensor - approximately 23.4 x 15.6 mm - also at 14 megapixels but with a vastly larger sensor surface area (365 mm² versus 28 mm²), yielding significant advantages. The bigger sensor translates to superior image quality, cleaner high-ISO performance, and greater depth of field control. The NEX-3 can reach native ISOs up to 12800, while the WG-1 GPS only maxes at ISO 6400.

In my hands-on tests, I observed:

• Pentax WG-1 GPS: Images are sharp and vivid under bright, daylight conditions, especially in landscapes and macro close-ups (thanks to a minimum focusing distance of 1 cm). However, noise becomes problematic at ISOs above 400, and dynamic range is limited, causing blown highlights in scenes with stark contrast.

• Sony NEX-3: The CMOS APS-C sensor renders cleaner images with noticeably less noise at ISO 1600 and even 3200. Its wider dynamic range preserves highlights and shadow detail far better, especially useful in challenging lighting - sunsets, indoor shots, or backlit portraits.

The presence of an anti-aliasing filter on both cameras limits some fine detail, but the Sony’s larger sensor and newer image processor (Bionz) allow more creative flexibility and superior output suitable for large prints and professional applications.

Display and Interface: Navigating Your Shots with Confidence

Displays and live views are critical for composing and reviewing photos - especially when viewfinders are absent.

The WG-1 GPS offers a 2.7-inch fixed TFT LCD with a modest 230k-dot resolution and a proprietary anti-reflective coating. In bright sunlight, visibility can be challenging, though the coating helps somewhat. Since the screen is fixed, shooting from low or high angles can be awkward.

Conversely, the NEX-3 sports a larger 3-inch TFT Xtra Fine LCD with 920k dots - providing much sharper and more responsive live view. Its tilt mechanism (up to 45 degrees up, 90 degrees down) allows photographers to compose more creatively and with ease. I found myself leaning on this tilting screen constantly for street and macro photography, where unconventional angles add interest.

Neither camera offers touch controls, which is a shame on the NEX-3, but navigation through menus remains fluid and intuitive on both systems. The Sony’s more extensive customization and setting options are easier to tackle with its better screen.

Autofocus Performance: Responsive Contrast Detection vs. Limited Speed

AF performance can make or break a shoot, especially for fast-moving subjects.

The Pentax WG-1 GPS relies on contrast detection AF across 9 focus points, with center-weighted emphasis. It supports AF tracking and live view AF but lacks face or eye-detection capabilities. The autofocus is generally reliable in good lighting but slow to lock in dimmer conditions and when tracking moving objects - burst shooting is minimal (1 fps), limiting appeal for action photography.

Sony’s NEX-3 also uses contrast detection AF but features significantly more focus points (25), including face detection. AF tracking is limited compared to today’s standards but faster and more responsive than the Pentax. Continuous AF works well in live view and contributes to burst shooting at 7 fps - making it far better suited for sports and wildlife compared with the WG-1 GPS.

Real-world use during my testing showed:

• WG-1 GPS: Good for landscapes, travel snapshots, and macro shots where speed isn’t critical. Struggles with erratic subjects.

• NEX-3: Well suited to portrait sessions and street photography with moderate movement. Fast AF helps nail the decisive moment.

Lens Ecosystem: Fixed Zoom Versus Versatile Interchangeables

The WG-1 GPS sports a fixed 28-140mm equivalent zoom lens with a maximum aperture of f/3.5-5.5. This lens covers the essentials from wide-angle landscapes to moderate telephoto, useful for portraits and general purpose. There’s no option to swap lenses, so you’re tied to this zoom prism.

The Sony NEX-3’s trump card is the Sony E-mount system, which today supports over 120 native lenses - from ultra-wide primes to super-telephoto zooms, including third-party options. While the original lens sold with the camera might be a modest kit zoom, the ability to upgrade to fast primes, macros, or specialized optics unlocks vast creative potential.

The fixed lens of the Pentax is rugged and weather sealed, matching the durability of the camera body - great for rough use. But for photographers who want to experiment, the Sony system’s flexibility is a compelling reason to invest longer-term.

Battery Life and Storage: Compact Needs vs. Endurance

Practical usability combines both power longevity and storage options.

The Pentax WG-1 GPS uses a D-LI92 battery pack rated at around 260 shots per charge. It supports a single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot plus internal memory - a convenient backup but rarely sufficient for extended shooting sessions. Its compact size and features mean power consumption is relatively low.

The Sony NEX-3’s NPFW50 battery rated at approximately 330 shots per charge offers more endurance, but as a mirrorless camera with a larger sensor and bigger display, power use is naturally higher. The single card slot accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC as well as Memory Stick Pro Duo - offering some versatility.

Energy efficiency and storage expandability favor the Sony slightly, especially for travel and prolonged shoots, but neither camera excels by today’s standards of battery life.

Weather and Environmental Resistance: Built for the Wild or Studio?

If you need a camera that can survive more than just a rain shower, the WG-1 GPS clearly stands out.

This Pentax is designed with serious environmental sealing - resistant to water, dust, shock, crush, and freezing temperatures - making it a reliable companion for underwater, hiking, or adventure photography. The built-in GPS tagging is also handy for geo-tagging images without external devices.

The Sony NEX-3 has no environmental protection, effectively restricting it to indoor or fair-weather use. It remains a delicate instrument by nature of its mirrorless design and interchangeable lenses, which require care.

Versatility Across Photography Genres: Strengths and Weaknesses

Let’s explore how each model performs across various photography disciplines, mixing technical specs with hands-on usability.

Portraits and People Photography

• Pentax WG-1 GPS: The fixed zoom covers the key focal lengths but struggles with shallow depth of field due to a small sensor and moderate aperture. No eye-detection AF limits focus precision on faces. Skin tones can feel slightly oversaturated due to CCD sensor color processing. Good for casual snapshots but falls short for professional-level portraits.

• Sony NEX-3: APS-C sensor and ability to use fast primes allow for excellent background blur and subject separation. Face detection AF is a boon, increasing keeper rates. Customizable white balance ensures faithful skin tone rendering. A better choice for portrait enthusiasts and semi-professionals.

Landscape Photography

• Pentax WG-1 GPS: The ruggedness and waterproof body let you photograph in challenging environments (such as rugged coastlines or rainy days) without worry. Wide-angle 28mm equivalent is reasonable but limiting for grand vistas. Dynamic range is mediocre, so HDR or bracketing may need to compensate for highlight clipping.

• Sony NEX-3: Larger sensor captures a wider tonal range and detail ideal for landscapes. Access to quality wide-angle prime lenses (like 16mm f/2.8, 10-18mm zooms) expands creative options. Requires weather protection measures but yields higher quality files.

Wildlife and Sports

• Pentax WG-1 GPS: Slow AF, lack of continuous shooting beyond 1 fps, and moderate telephoto reach make it unsuitable for serious wildlife or sports photography.

• Sony NEX-3: 7 fps burst rate and faster AF make the NEX-3 a basic but workable tool for action, especially with telephoto E-mount lenses. Limited AF tracking and no eye detection for animals restricts performance, but a good starting point on a budget.

Street Photography

• Pentax WG-1 GPS: Compact and rugged, great for street photography in inclement weather. Limited manual controls and slow AF may frustrate fast-paced shooting.

• Sony NEX-3: Compact for a mirrorless, silent shutter options (if third-party tools used), and tiltable screen make it flexible and especially good for candid shots. The ability to swap in discreet primes further benefits street work.

Macro Photography

• Pentax WG-1 GPS: Superb macro capability with 1 cm focus distance and the convenience of waterproofing around water plants and insects. Natural small sensor depth of field is large, so background blur is soft.

• Sony NEX-3: Needs a dedicated macro lens but APS-C sensor, fine manual focus control, and focus peaking (3rd-party firmware or software) enable more precise macro shots with better bokeh control.

Night and Astro Photography

• Pentax WG-1 GPS: Limited by sensor noise and fixed aperture. Slow shutter speeds max out at 1500 (1/1500 sec fastest, 4 sec slowest) but no bulb mode. Not designed for astro.

• Sony NEX-3: APS-C sensor with higher ISO ceiling enhances low-light and astrophotography possibilities. Manual exposure modes and longer shutter speeds (max 4000, but bulb unsupported) provide better control. Requires tripod and sturdy lens.

Video Capabilities

Both cameras max out at 720p HD video:

• Pentax WG-1 GPS: Offers Motion JPEG format at 1280 x 720 @ 30 fps, but no external mic input and no stabilization make video use very basic.

• Sony NEX-3: Also 720p 30 fps MPEG-4 video, no mic input, no image stabilization. Better sensor and lens options translate to potentially sharper footage.

Neither is designed as a serious video tool today, but the NEX-3 offers slightly better quality potential.

Travel Photography

The WG-1 GPS’s compact size, ruggedness, and GPS tagging excel in adventure travel scenarios where durability and environmental resistance matter most. Its simplified controls help capture moments quickly.

The NEX-3’s versatility and image quality benefit general travel use for those prioritizing image fidelity and compositional control over absolute ruggedness. Interchangeable lenses increase adaptability but add bulk and require care.

Professional Use and Workflow Integration

The WG-1 GPS lacks raw support, limiting post-processing flexibility. No advanced exposure modes or manual controls restrict it to casual or emergency professional use (e.g., fieldwork shots).

The NEX-3 supports raw files, manual exposure modes, and offers exposure compensation and custom white balance. Files integrate well into professional workflows. However, lacking environmental seals and an EVF makes it less robust than pro-grade models.

Connectivity and Extras: What Do These Cameras Bring to the Table?

Both cameras integrate Eye-Fi card compatibility for wireless image transfer, a nice convenience before widespread Wi-Fi connectivity in cameras became common.

The WG-1 GPS stands out with built-in GPS tagging - a useful feature for outdoor and travel photographers wanting to geotag images automatically.

The Sony NEX-3 has no GPS and no Bluetooth or NFC but supports HDMI output for external displays.

Neither supports microphone or headphone jacks, limiting advanced video use.

Final Evaluation and Recommendations

Based on exhaustive testing and analysis, here are how these two cameras stack up in broad brushes:

• Pentax WG-1 GPS excels as a rugged, compact companion for adventure seekers and casual photographers who need durability and simplicity. Its waterproof, shockproof design and GPS tagging are standout features. However, image quality is limited by the small CCD sensor and mediocre low-light performance; slow AF and no raw support further restrict creative control.

• Sony NEX-3 is an impressive early mirrorless camera with excellent image quality courtesy of its APS-C CMOS sensor, versatile lens ecosystem, and a user interface that caters to growth and experimentation. While lacking environmental resistance, its manual controls, faster AF, and superior display make it highly suitable for hobbyists and enthusiasts wanting to step up from point-and-shoot photography.

Who Should Buy the Pentax WG-1 GPS?

• Outdoor adventurers needing a tough, all-weather camera
• Budget-conscious users who want simple point-and-shoot convenience and GPS tagging
• Macro and underwater photographers looking for ruggedness over flexibility
• Travelers who prioritize size, weight, and durability over image quality and lens choice

Who Should Consider the Sony NEX-3?

• Enthusiast photographers wanting to learn manual exposure and expand lens options
• Portrait and street photographers seeking better image quality and faster autofocus
• Budget buyers looking for a compact mirrorless system with growth potential
• Those ready to prioritize image quality and control, understanding the need for careful handling

In Closing: Experience, Expertise, and Your Next Camera Decision

Having handled both cameras extensively, I can confidently say each occupies its niche admirably. Your choice hinges on priorities: Do you need a rugged "insurance policy" for extreme conditions, or a flexible platform for creative exploration that will scale with your skills?

While the WG-1 GPS is an impressive rugged compact for its era, the Sony NEX-3’s sensor size, lens flexibility, and exposure control place it firmly ahead for serious photographic endeavors.

If you want pro-level adaptability, the NEX-3 is the undisputed winner here, despite lacking some modern amenities. But if your photography means cave diving or mountain biking in the rain, the WG-1 GPS remains dependable and purpose-built.

Pentax WG 1 GPS front Pentax WG 1 GPS screen back Sony NEX 3 front Sony NEX 3 screen back

In the end, you can’t really go wrong picking either of these cameras depending on your use case. But I always recommend prioritizing image quality, control, and lens ecosystems for longevity - qualities the Sony NEX-3 embodies more fully. Still, the Pentax WG-1 GPS is a rugged little trooper for capturing memories where others might bend or break.

Happy shooting, and remember - your creative vision counts more than any gear spec alone!

Note: Pricing at time of review reflected $349.95 for the WG-1 GPS, while the NEX-3’s price varies widely now as a discontinued model. Always factor in lens costs and accessories in your budget calculations.