Pentax WS80 vs Sony RX10

Below is a extensive review of the Pentax WS80 and Sony RX10, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Large Sensor Superzoom by rivals Pentax and Sony. There is a sizeable difference between the sensor resolutions of the WS80 (10MP) and RX10 (20MP) and the WS80 (1/2.3") and RX10 (1") offer different sensor measurements.

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The WS80 was unveiled 5 years prior to the RX10 and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras feature different body design with the Pentax WS80 being a Compact camera and the Sony RX10 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before delving into a comprehensive comparison, here is a concise view of how the WS80 matches up versus the RX10 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax Optio WS80 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10. The full galleries are viewable at Pentax WS80 Gallery and Sony RX10 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you need to consider its weight and proportions. The Pentax WS80 has got external measurements of 92mm x 60mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.4" x 0.9") along with a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) and the Sony RX10 has measurements of 129mm x 88mm x 102mm (5.1" x 3.5" x 4.0") accompanied by a weight of 813 grams (1.79 lbs).

Compare the Pentax WS80 and Sony RX10 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you select at the time. Underneath is a front view measurements comparison of the WS80 vs the RX10.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the WS80 and RX10 is 95 and 58 respectively.

Often, it's tough to picture the contrast between sensor measurements merely by reviewing technical specs. The graphic here may provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the WS80 and RX10.

As you have seen, both cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The WS80 with its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF harder and the Sony RX10 will deliver extra detail having an extra 10MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The older WS80 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.