Pentax WG-3 vs Sony a5100

On this page, we will be analyzing the Pentax WG-3 versus Sony a5100, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Pentax and Sony. There is a big difference between the sensor resolutions of the WG-3 (16MP) and a5100 (24MP) and the WG-3 (1/2.3") and a5100 (APS-C) have different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The WG-3 was launched 13 months prior to the a5100 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Pentax WG-3 being a Compact camera and the Sony a5100 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go into a complete comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the WG-3 scores against the a5100 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax WG-3 and Sony Alpha a5100. The complete galleries are provided at Pentax WG-3 Gallery and Sony a5100 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry your camera often, you have to factor its weight and size. The Pentax WG-3 offers external measurements of 124mm x 64mm x 33mm (4.9" x 2.5" x 1.3") with a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs) whilst the Sony a5100 has specifications of 110mm x 63mm x 36mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.4") along with a weight of 283 grams (0.62 lbs).

Look at the Pentax WG-3 versus Sony a5100 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have attached during that time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the WG-3 compared to the a5100.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the WG-3 and a5100 is 90 and 89 respectively.

Generally, its tough to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing just by looking at specifications. The photograph below may provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the WG-3 and a5100.

To sum up, both the cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The WG-3 due to its tinier sensor is going to make getting bokeh tougher and the Sony a5100 will give greater detail utilizing its extra 8MP. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The older WG-3 is going to be behind in sensor innovation.