Pentax WG-1 vs Sony A57

Below, we will be analyzing the Pentax WG-1 vs Sony A57, one is a Waterproof and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Pentax and Sony. The resolution of the WG-1 (14MP) and the A57 (16MP) is relatively comparable but the WG-1 (1/2.3") and A57 (APS-C) enjoy different sensor dimensions.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The WG-1 was brought out 19 months earlier than the A57 which makes the cameras a generation away from one another. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Pentax WG-1 being a Compact camera and the Sony A57 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go in to a in-depth comparison, below is a simple summary of how the WG-1 scores against the A57 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax Optio WG-1 and Sony SLT-A57. The entire galleries are provided at Pentax WG-1 Gallery and Sony A57 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry around your camera, you will need to take into account its weight and measurements. The Pentax WG-1 has got outer 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 A57 has proportions of 132mm x 98mm x 81mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.2") and a weight of 618 grams (1.36 lbs).

Look at the Pentax WG-1 vs Sony A57 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have attached during that time. Underneath is the front view sizing comparison of the WG-1 compared to the A57.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the WG-1 and A57 is 93 and 64 respectively.

Typically, it is hard to picture the gap in sensor sizes purely by going through a spec sheet. The picture underneath will help offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the WG-1 and A57.

As you can see, each of the cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The WG-1 due to its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF more difficult and the Sony A57 will produce extra detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures much more aggressively. The more aged WG-1 will be behind in sensor technology.