Pentax WG-3 vs Sony A380

Here is a extensive overview of the Pentax WG-3 vs Sony A380, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by competitors Pentax and Sony. The image resolution of the WG-3 (16MP) and the A380 (14MP) is pretty comparable but the WG-3 (1/2.3") and A380 (APS-C) feature different sensor measurements.

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The WG-3 was launched 3 years later than the A380 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Pentax WG-3 being a Compact camera and the Sony A380 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting straight into a complete comparison, below is a simple overview of how the WG-3 matches up versus the A380 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax WG-3 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A380. The complete galleries are provided at Pentax WG-3 Gallery and Sony A380 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry your camera, you should factor in its weight and measurements. The Pentax WG-3 offers exterior dimensions of 124mm x 64mm x 33mm (4.9" x 2.5" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs) while the Sony A380 has proportions of 128mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 519 grams (1.14 lbs).

Compare the Pentax WG-3 vs Sony A380 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you choose during that time. The following is the front view scale comparison of the WG-3 vs the A380.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the WG-3 and A380 is 90 and 68 respectively.

Often, it is hard to imagine the gap in sensor sizing purely by seeing technical specs. The graphic below should provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the WG-3 and A380.

As you have seen, both the cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The WG-3 featuring a smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF trickier and the Pentax WG-3 will provide more detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop pictures far more aggressively. The more recent WG-3 should have a benefit in sensor innovation.