Pentax WG-3 vs Sony a1

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Pentax WG-3 versus Sony a1, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by competitors Pentax and Sony. There exists a sizeable gap between the image resolutions of the WG-3 (16MP) and a1 (50MP) and the WG-3 (1/2.3") and a1 (Full frame) come with totally different sensor measurements.

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The WG-3 was released 8 years prior to the a1 and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Pentax WG-3 being a Compact camera and the Sony a1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief summation of how the WG-3 matches up against the a1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax WG-3 and Sony Alpha a1. The complete galleries are viewable at Pentax WG-3 Gallery and Sony a1 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry your camera frequently, you will need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Pentax WG-3 has got outer dimensions of 124mm x 64mm x 33mm (4.9" x 2.5" x 1.3") along with a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs) and the Sony a1 has dimensions of 129mm x 97mm x 70mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") and a weight of 737 grams (1.62 lbs).

Compare the Pentax WG-3 versus Sony a1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you use at that time. Below is the front view dimension comparison of the WG-3 versus the a1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the WG-3 and a1 is 90 and 61 respectively.

Sometimes, it's tough to see the difference between sensor sizing simply by looking at specifications. The photograph below might give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the WG-3 and a1.

To sum up, the 2 cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The WG-3 due to its tinier sensor will make getting shallow DOF harder and the Sony a1 will give you more detail as a result of its extra 34 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots a little more aggressively. The older WG-3 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.