Pentax WG-1 vs Sony W290

Here is a extended assessment of the Pentax WG-1 and Sony W290, former being a Waterproof while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Pentax and Sony. The image resolution of the WG-1 (14MP) and the W290 (12MP) is pretty close and they use the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The WG-1 was unveiled 24 months later than the W290 which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting in to a thorough comparison, below is a short introduction of how the WG-1 matches up versus the W290 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax Optio WG-1 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W290. The full galleries are viewable at Pentax WG-1 Gallery & Sony W290 Gallery.

In case you're going to carry your camera often, you're going to have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Pentax WG-1 has outside measurements of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Sony W290 has dimensions of 98mm x 57mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Look at the Pentax WG-1 and Sony W290 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are working with during that time. Following is the front view scale comparison of the WG-1 and the W290.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the WG-1 and W290 is 93 and 94 respectively.

Typically, it's hard to envision the gap in sensor sizing merely by researching specs. The visual underneath should give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the WG-1 and W290.

As you can plainly see, both cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same MP. You can expect the Pentax WG-1 to provide you with greater detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots a little more aggressively. The fresher WG-1 will have an edge in sensor technology.