Pentax WS80 vs Sony NEX-3

On this page, we are comparing the Pentax WS80 versus Sony NEX-3, one being a Waterproof and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Pentax and Sony. There is a sizeable difference among the resolutions of the WS80 (10MP) and NEX-3 (14MP) and the WS80 (1/2.3") and NEX-3 (APS-C) posses totally different sensor size.

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The WS80 was released 10 months before the NEX-3 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Pentax WS80 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a simple summary of how the WS80 matches up against the NEX-3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Pentax Optio WS80 and Sony Alpha NEX-3. The complete galleries are available at Pentax WS80 Gallery and Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to lug around your camera regularly, you should think about its weight and dimensions. The Pentax WS80 has external measurements of 92mm x 60mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.4" x 0.9") with a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) and the Sony NEX-3 has dimensions of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

Check the Pentax WS80 versus Sony NEX-3 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have attached during that time. Following is a front view measurements comparison of the WS80 and the NEX-3.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the WS80 and NEX-3 is 95 and 89 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very tough to visualise the gap in sensor measurements simply by researching specifications. The photograph underneath may offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the WS80 and NEX-3.

To sum up, the 2 cameras have different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The WS80 because of its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field more difficult and the Sony NEX-3 will result in greater detail as a result of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will help you crop photos a bit more aggressively. The older WS80 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.