Pentax WS80 vs Pentax ist DL2

Below is a in depth comparison of the Pentax WS80 and Pentax ist DL2, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Advanced DSLR and both of them are designed by Pentax. There is a sizeable difference among the image resolutions of the WS80 (10MP) and ist DL2 (6MP) and the WS80 (1/2.3") and ist DL2 (APS-C) come with totally different sensor sizes.

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The WS80 was announced 3 years later than the ist DL2 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Pentax WS80 being a Compact camera and the Pentax ist DL2 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go straight into a full comparison, below is a simple summation of how the WS80 scores vs the ist DL2 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax Optio WS80 and Pentax ist DL2. The whole galleries are provided at Pentax WS80 Gallery and Pentax ist DL2 Gallery.

When you are planning to lug around your camera regularly, you will have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Pentax WS80 offers outside measurements of 92mm x 60mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.4" x 0.9") with a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) whilst the Pentax ist DL2 has dimensions of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") along with a weight of 565 grams (1.25 lbs).

Examine the Pentax WS80 and Pentax ist DL2 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are employing at that moment. Below is the front view measurements comparison of the WS80 compared to the ist DL2.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the WS80 and ist DL2 is 95 and 69 respectively.

Often, it's hard to see the contrast in sensor measurements purely by checking out technical specs. The photograph here will offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the WS80 and ist DL2.

As you have seen, both cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The WS80 with its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field harder and the Pentax WS80 will show extra detail with its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures far more aggressively. The more recent WS80 will have an edge with regard to sensor technology.