Pentax WG-2 vs Sony A580

In this article, we will be contrasting the Pentax WG-2 versus Sony A580, former is a Waterproof while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by competitors Pentax and Sony. The sensor resolution of the WG-2 (16MP) and the A580 (16MP) is relatively comparable but the WG-2 (1/2.3") and A580 (APS-C) enjoy different sensor sizes.

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The WG-2 was manufactured 9 months after the A580 and they are of a similar age. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Pentax WG-2 being a Compact camera and the Sony A580 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a simple summation of how the WG-2 grades vs the A580 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax Optio WG-2 & Sony Alpha DSLR-A580. The entire galleries are provided at Pentax WG-2 Gallery & Sony A580 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry around your camera frequently, you will need to factor its weight and dimensions. The Pentax WG-2 features external measurements of 122mm x 61mm x 30mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 1.2") along with a weight of 192 grams (0.42 lbs) whilst the Sony A580 has dimensions of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") having a weight of 599 grams (1.32 lbs).

Examine the Pentax WG-2 versus Sony A580 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have attached at the time. The following is the front view over all size comparison of the WG-2 vs the A580.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the WG-2 and A580 is 91 and 64 respectively.

In many cases, its difficult to imagine the difference in sensor sizes just by going through a spec sheet. The pic underneath will provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the WG-2 and A580.

Clearly, both the cameras offer the same exact MP albeit different sensor sizes. The WG-2 offers the smaller sensor which will make getting shallower DOF trickier. The fresher WG-2 provides an edge with regard to sensor tech.