Pentax WG-1 GPS vs Sony A57

Here, we are reviewing the Pentax WG-1 GPS and Sony A57, one being a Waterproof and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Pentax and Sony. The image resolution of the WG-1 GPS (14MP) and the A57 (16MP) is very well matched but the WG-1 GPS (1/2.3") and A57 (APS-C) provide different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The WG-1 GPS was launched 13 months earlier than the A57 making them a generation apart from one another. The two cameras feature different body design with the Pentax WG-1 GPS being a Compact camera and the Sony A57 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving into a full comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the WG-1 GPS grades versus the A57 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax Optio WG-1 GPS and Sony SLT-A57. The complete galleries are viewable at Pentax WG-1 GPS Gallery and Sony A57 Gallery.

If you are intending to lug around your camera regularly, you need to consider its weight and measurements. The Pentax WG-1 GPS enjoys external measurements of 116mm x 59mm x 29mm (4.6" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) whilst the Sony A57 has proportions of 132mm x 98mm x 81mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.2") accompanied by a weight of 618 grams (1.36 lbs).

Check the Pentax WG-1 GPS and Sony A57 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are utilizing at the time. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the WG-1 GPS against the A57.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the WG-1 GPS and A57 is 93 and 64 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to imagine the contrast between sensor measurements only by looking at a spec sheet. The photograph underneath will help offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the WG-1 GPS and A57.

As you can see, both the cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The WG-1 GPS because of its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field trickier and the Sony A57 will resolve greater detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop pics way more aggressively. The older WG-1 GPS is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.