Pentax WS80 vs Pentax ist DS2

Here is a in-depth comparison of the Pentax WS80 vs Pentax ist DS2, former being a Waterproof while the other is a Advanced DSLR and both of them are created by Pentax. There is a substantial difference between the image resolutions of the WS80 (10MP) and ist DS2 (6MP) and the WS80 (1/2.3") and ist DS2 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The WS80 was announced 4 years later than the ist DS2 and that is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Pentax WS80 being a Compact camera and the Pentax ist DS2 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before getting straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the WS80 scores against the ist DS2 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Pentax Optio WS80 & Pentax ist DS2. The whole galleries are provided at Pentax WS80 Gallery & Pentax ist DS2 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry your camera regularly, you will have to consider its weight and size. The Pentax WS80 has got exterior dimensions of 92mm x 60mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.4" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) while the Pentax ist DS2 has specifications of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") accompanied by a weight of 605 grams (1.33 lbs).

Analyze the Pentax WS80 vs Pentax ist DS2 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have during that time. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the WS80 vs the ist DS2.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the WS80 and ist DS2 is 95 and 68 respectively.

Generally, it can be hard to see the contrast between sensor sizing merely by reading through specs. The photograph below should provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the WS80 and ist DS2.

As you can plainly see, the two cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The WS80 with its tinier sensor will make shooting bokeh more difficult and the Pentax WS80 will give you extra detail with its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will help you crop images a bit more aggressively. The fresher WS80 is going to have a benefit in sensor tech.