Pentax WG-2 GPS vs Sony HX5: Which Compact Camera Fits Your Photography Style?

In the crowded world of compact cameras, two models catering to different niches stand out: the rugged Pentax Optio WG-2 GPS and the versatile Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5. Both were announced within two years of each other - Pentax in early 2012 and Sony in mid-2010 - yet they approach photography from distinct perspectives. Having spent considerable hands-on time testing each, I’ll walk you through an in-depth comparison covering everything from sensor technology to handling in varied shooting scenarios. Whether you prioritize adventure-ready toughness or zoom versatility, this article unpacks what you need to know to make an informed choice.

Size, Handling & Build: Rugged vs Sleek Compact

First impressions are important, and this comparison starts with the cameras’ physicality.

The Pentax WG-2 GPS is built for durability. Sporting a waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, crushproof, and freezeproof body, it feels reassuringly solid in hand. Its dimensions (122 x 61 x 30 mm) and weight (198 grams) hint at a chunkier profile designed to withstand harsh environments. The rubberized grip and robust construction provide confidence in wet or rugged conditions.

On the other hand, the Sony HX5 is more traditional compact size - smaller at 102 x 58 x 29 mm and roughly the same weight at 200 grams. It’s pocketable and sleek, closer to your everyday carry camera, but lacks environmental sealing.

When considering portability and protection, the WG-2 GPS clearly targets outdoor enthusiasts who need a camera that won’t quit in challenging settings. The Sony HX5 leans more toward casual or enthusiast shooters valuing zoom reach and size.

Control Layout & User Interface: Simplicity vs Customizability

Both cameras have fixed LCDs without electronic viewfinders, a common trait in early-2010s compacts, but their design philosophies differ.

The Pentax WG-2 GPS opts for straightforward controls, favoring simplicity over extensive manual tweaks. It lacks shutter or aperture priority modes and manual exposure, limiting creative control somewhat. The buttons are sealed and ruggedized, but not backlit - less handy after dark. Still, the layout fits well with its one-button simplicity ethos for adventure shooting.

Meanwhile, the Sony HX5 incorporates more advanced controls. It supports manual exposure and exposure compensation - important for enthusiasts wanting creative input. However, the buttons feel a bit cramped given its smaller body. The lack of illuminated buttons is a minor quibble but noticeable in dim scenarios.

If you prefer to tinker with settings and like direct manual input, the HX5 is the better bet. If you want durability and straightforward operation for quick shots, the WG-2 GPS wins.

Sensor and Image Quality: Details, Dynamic Range, and ISO

Both cameras employ small sensors typical for compacts, but their sensor sizes and resolutions differ subtly.

• Pentax WG-2 GPS: 1/2.3" BSI-CMOS sensor, 16MP resolution (4288x3216 pixels), max native ISO 6400.
• Sony HX5: Slightly smaller 1/2.4" BSI-CMOS, 10MP resolution (3456x2592 pixels), max native ISO 3200.

Higher resolution on the WG-2 GPS means more detailed captures in good lighting but potentially more noise at higher ISOs due to smaller microlenses. In contrast, Sony trades pixel count for potentially better low-light performance and cleaner images at moderate ISO.

Real-world testing confirmed the WG-2 GPS delivers sharper images with good daylight detail, especially for landscapes and macro photos, its forte. However, noise rises significantly above ISO 800, with limited noise reduction options because it lacks RAW support.

The HX5 offers cleaner images up to ISO 800 and is smoother in shadow areas, making it preferable for lower light environments despite lower megapixels. Its optical image stabilization also helps maintain detail at slower shutter speeds.

Neither camera dazzles with dynamic range - small sensors universally struggle here. But for everyday snapshots and casual landscape captures, both serve well. The Pentax leaps ahead in sheer resolution, while Sony balances noise and detail deftly.

Screen & Viewfinder: A Window Into Your Shot

Viewing your images and composing shots depends heavily on the LCD quality when no viewfinder exists.

Both have 3-inch fixed LCDs. Remarkably, the Pentax WG-2 GPS sports a higher resolution screen (460k dots) with an anti-reflective coating, delivering clear visibility even in bright sunlight - a boon for outdoor shooting. Its widescreen 16:9 format aligns well with HD video framing.

The Sony HX5 uses a lower 230k dots LCD, making it less crisp and harder to see clearly outdoors. However, its slightly smaller screen and traditional aspect ratio make it acceptable indoors or shade.

For adventure or travel situations where bright conditions reign, I much prefer the WG-2 GPS display. Sony’s screen feels budget-tier by comparison.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Responsiveness Under Pressure

Autofocus (AF) and continuous shooting capabilities can make or break capturing fleeting moments, especially for wildlife or sports enthusiasts.

The Pentax WG-2 GPS employs a 9-point contrast-detection AF system with face detection and AF tracking. However, it’s relatively slow - continuous shooting clocks only 1 fps. That means it’s suited to more deliberate, composed shots rather than action bursts.

Conversely, the Sony HX5 has an equally 9-point contrast AF that incorporates multi-area and center point selection but lacks face detection. Its big advantage: continuous shooting at 10 fps for JPEGs, a major boon for sports, wildlife, or candid street photography. The camera’s faster shutdown-to-capture time and quick AF lock make it more responsive in fast-moving situations.

Need sharp shots of kids playing, pets running, or street scenes unfolding quickly? HX5’s AF and burst capabilities deliver better results. For rugged trips where speed is less critical, WG-2 GPS suffices.

Lens and Zoom: Versatility or Purpose-Built?

Fixed lenses define these compacts. Let’s talk focal range and optics.

Pentax WG-2 GPS offers a 28-140mm equivalent (5x zoom), f/3.5-5.5 optical zoom lens. It’s versatile for wide landscapes, moderate telephoto, and surprisingly strong macro at 1cm minimum focusing distance.

Sony HX5 boasts a much longer 25-250mm equivalent (10x zoom), f/3.5-5.5 lens, giving double the telephoto reach. Minimum focusing distance is 5cm, less versatile macro-wise but offers broad framing options.

If you want extensive zoom reach for wildlife or distant street scenes - without changing lenses - the HX5 wins hands down. Pentax’s macro strengths bolster its appeal for nature close-ups. Both lenses share similar maximum apertures, limiting low light and bokeh options somewhat.

Image Stabilization: How They Handle Shake

Pentax surprisingly omits image stabilization, relying on faster shutter speeds and steady hands. This absence is painfully noticeable when shooting telephoto or in low light, where blur risk climbs.

Sony compensates with optical image stabilization (SteadyShot). This feature makes a tangible difference handheld, especially at 250mm focal length or suboptimal lighting. For anyone shooting outdoors, stabilization greatly expands your practical shooting envelope.

Video Capability: HD Quality and Practical Details

Both cameras record Full HD video, but differences abound.

Pentax WG-2 GPS offers 1920x1080 at 30fps with MPEG-4 and H.264 codecs. It also supports 720p at 60fps, enabling smoother slow motion. Notably, it records with built-in GPS geo-tagging, useful for travel and adventure documentation. However, there is no external microphone input or headphone jack.

Sony HX5 shoots 1920x1080 at 60fps using AVCHD compression - great for quality playback on HD TVs. Lower resolutions include 1440x1080 and 720p. However, its video is less customizable, and also lacks mic/headphone ports.

For outdoor enthusiasts wanting simple yet crisp video with geo-tracking, the Pentax edge is clear. Video enthusiasts seeking smooth high-frame footage might prefer Sony.

Battery Life & Storage: Practical Considerations

Pentax WG-2 GPS uses the D-LI92 rechargeable battery, rated for about 260 shots per charge - a modest figure typical of rugged compacts, due to power demands of waterproofing and screen brightness.

Sony HX5’s NP-BG1 battery rating is less documented here, but typical usage places it around 200-250 shots per charge. Both cameras accept SD cards, though Sony also supports Memory Stick Duo formats, offering flexibility if you already own Sony accessories.

Neither impresses with battery longevity for extended field use without spares.

Connectivity & Extras: Modern Conveniences

Interestingly, the Pentax WG-2 GPS offers built-in GPS plus wireless Eye-Fi card connectivity for wireless photo transfer - impressive for its time and very practical for geo-taggers and travelers wanting easy sharing.

The Sony HX5 lacks wireless or GPS connectivity by default, requiring workaround solutions for such features.

Diving Into Photography Genres: Who Performs Where?

To further break down, here’s how each camera fares by photography style:

Portraits: WG-2 GPS’s face detection autofocus helps lock eyes, but the lack of optical stabilization and limited aperture means subdued bokeh. Sony offers manual exposure control and stabilization, but no face detection, so workflow is a little more hands-on. Neither excels for professional portraits, but Sony wins for creative control.

Landscapes: Pentax’s higher resolution and weather sealing tilt balance in its favor for rugged outdoor landscapes. Sony’s longer zoom gives framing flexibility but lacks weather resistance.

Wildlife: Sony’s 10x zoom and 10fps burst capability excel here - quick capture and reach. Pentax’s slower shooter and shorter zoom make it less ideal.

Sports: Sony again has advantage with faster continuous shooting and stabilization. Pentax’s 1fps buffer is limiting.

Street: Sony’s smaller size and discreet design suits street shooting, though lack of weather proofing limits rainy day use. Pentax is bulkier and less discreet.

Macro: Pentax dominates with 1cm minimum focus distance and detailed, sharp close-ups.

Night/Astro: Neither is particularly strong - small sensors limit low-light performance, but Sony’s better noise control helps somewhat.

Video: Pentax offers 1080p 30fps with GPS tagging, Sony gets smoother 1080p 60fps recording with AVCHD quality.

Travel: If your journeys involve rugged environments, Pentax’s sealing, GPS, and durability make it king. For airport hopping and sightseeing in milder conditions, Sony’s size and zoom appeal.

Professional Use: Neither camera truly targets pros; both lack RAW support and advanced controls. Sony’s manual modes edge it closer to serious enthusiasts.

Sample Images: Real-World Quality Snapshot

Looking at sample images collected side by side showcases these differences.

Pentax WG 2 GPS front Pentax WG 2 GPS screen back Sony HX5 front Sony HX5 screen back

You’ll notice Pentax samples are sharp with vivid color, great for outdoor scenes and macros. Sony’s images appear smoother with slightly less detail but cleaner in shadows and lower noise. Each suits particular taste and shooting conditions.

Overall Performance Breakdown: Scores and Value

Putting all factors together results in the following overall ratings:

Sony HX5 scores higher in speed, zoom range, and general versatility. Pentax WG-2 lags in speed and zoom but leads in weatherproofing, resolution, and rugged design.

Technical Insight: How These Cameras Hold Up With Modern Expectations

From a technical standpoint, these cameras represent distinct compromises typical of early-2010s compacts:

• Sensor tech: Both use back-illuminated CMOS, improving light sensitivity over previous CCDs.
• Autofocus: Contrast-detection only, limited speed and tracking compared to modern hybrids.
• Build: Pentax’s environmental sealing remains impressive for a compact.
• Ergonomics: WG-2’s ruggedized buttons vs Sony’s compact design offer divergent experiences.
• Lens: Fixed lens options favor different use cases (macro vs telephoto).
• Battery & storage: Typical compact ranges, no rapid charge or dual slots.
• Connectivity: Early wireless capabilities favor Pentax.
• Value: Pricing is similar, but priorities differ sharply.

Final Takeaways: Which One Should You Pick?

Choose the Pentax WG-2 GPS if:

• You need a rugged, all-weather companion for hiking, diving, or adventure sports.
• Macro photography is important - its 1cm focus is superb.
• You value higher resolution images for landscapes.
• GPS tagging of images is a must-have.
• You don’t mind modest continuous shooting or manual control limitations.

Choose the Sony HX5 if:

• You want a compact travel camera with long zoom reach for wildlife and street scenes.
• Fast autofocus and burst shooting (10 fps) are essential.
• Optical image stabilization is a priority to reduce blur.
• You desire manual exposure controls for creative flexibility.
• Video quality with 60fps in AVCHD is important.
• You shoot mostly in mild environments without risk of water or dust damage.

Photography gear is about fit and preference as much as specs. If I were headed to an alpine trail or snorkeling in coral reefs, the Pentax WG-2 GPS would be my trusted sidekick. For everyday travel, garden visits, or chasing street life in the city, I’d grab the Sony HX5 for its zoom and responsiveness.

Have you used either of these cameras? What was your experience like? Feel free to share your thoughts below!