Pentax WG-2 GPS vs Sony HX1

In this write-up, we will be comparing the Pentax WG-2 GPS vs Sony HX1, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Pentax and Sony. There is a huge difference between the resolutions of the WG-2 GPS (16MP) and HX1 (9MP) and the WG-2 GPS (1/2.3") and HX1 (1/2.4") feature totally different sensor dimensions.

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The WG-2 GPS was announced 2 years later than the HX1 and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Pentax WG-2 GPS being a Compact camera and the Sony HX1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before delving straight into a complete comparison, below is a simple view of how the WG-2 GPS matches up versus the HX1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax Optio WG-2 GPS and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1. The whole galleries are available at Pentax WG-2 GPS Gallery and Sony HX1 Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry your camera frequently, you will have to consider its weight and size. The Pentax WG-2 GPS provides outer measurements of 122mm x 61mm x 30mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 1.2") having a weight of 198 grams (0.44 lbs) and the Sony HX1 has specifications of 115mm x 83mm x 92mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 3.6") and a weight of 544 grams (1.20 lbs).

Analyze the Pentax WG-2 GPS vs Sony HX1 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have during that time. The following is the front view over all size comparison of the WG-2 GPS vs the HX1.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the WG-2 GPS and HX1 is 91 and 67 respectively.

In many cases, it can be hard to visualise the difference between sensor sizing merely by reviewing specs. The visual here should provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the WG-2 GPS and HX1.

All in all, both the cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The WG-2 GPS having a bigger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF less difficult and the Pentax WG-2 GPS will offer you more detail with its extra 7MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop shots far more aggressively. The younger WG-2 GPS is going to have an edge with regard to sensor technology.