A Comprehensive Review of the Pentax WG-3 Camera: An Unbeatable Waterproof Adventure Companion

Are you looking for a camera that can withstand extreme outdoor adventures while producing high-quality images and videos? Look no further than the Pentax WG-3! This rugged camera is waterproof, shockproof, and freeze-proof, making it the perfect companion for hiking, camping, and underwater exploration. In this blog, we'll provide a detailed review of the Pentax WG-3 and highlight its top features, including its 16 megapixel sensor, built-in GPS, and full HD video capabilities.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Pentax WG-3 article cover photo

Key Features

Jul 19 2013

Announced

16 megapixels

Resolution

BrandPentax
Sensor Type1/2.3-inch
SensorBSI-CMOS
Weight230g
MSRP$349USD

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Pentax K-3 thumbnail

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Overview of the WG-3

Are you a travel enthusiast who loves capturing moments from your adventures? Do you often find yourself in scenarios where your camera is at risk of getting damaged due to water, dust, or extreme temperatures? If yes, you need a camera that can keep up with your passion for exploration and provide you with high-quality images and videos. The Pentax WG-3 is a camera that has been designed to cater to the needs of adventure enthusiasts. It has a sturdy exterior that can withstand harsh conditions such as water, dust, and extreme temperatures while producing crystal-clear images. Let's dive deeper into the features that make the Pentax WG-3 the ultimate adventure companion!

Pentax WG-3 Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Pentax WG-3 camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!

Pros

Waterproof & shockproof
16 megapixel resolution
GPS and compass features
High-speed shooting modes
Macro focus capability
Built-in LED lights for close-up shots
Wide-angle lens
Image stabilization technology
Durable metal construction

Cons

Limited zoom range
Slow autofocus speed
Limited video recording capabilities
Price point is higher compared to some competitors
Bulkier and heavier than some compact point-and-shoot cameras
No Wi-Fi connectivity for sharing photos
Average battery life
Limited manual control options

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Pentax WG-3

Weather sealed
Dimensions124 x 64 x 33mm
Weight230g
Thickness33mm
Weight
Min
Avg
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Max
Thickness
Min
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Max

Weather Sealing

The Pentax WG-3 camera is equipped with environmental seals that make it resistant to weather, preventing water and dust from entering the camera. If you enjoy outdoor photography and need a camera that can handle extreme conditions, the WG-3 is an excellent choice.

Design and Handling

Main design features

View FinderNone
Screen TypeFixed Type
Screen Resolution460k dots
Body typeCompact

Suitable for:

PhotographyAbove Avg.
VideographyAbove Avg.
TravelAbove Avg.

LCD Screen

This camera has a fixed type 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 460k dots. This makes the Pentax WG-3 not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.

Viewfinder

Pentax WG-3 does not include a viewfinder. The lack of a viewfinder on the WG-3 camera may make it less suitable for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Pentax WG-3 has a 16MP sized BSI-CMOS sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 16 pixels. Pentax WG-3 has a native ISO range of 125 - 6400 which can be boosted to null - null.

Key Features

Jul 19 2013

Announced

125 - 6400

ISO Range

Sensor1/2.3-inch
Extended ISOnull - null
Max resolution4608 x 3456 pixels

DXO Sensor Scores

Overall

not tested

Color Depth

not tested

Dynamic Range

not tested

Low Light ISO

not tested

DXO mark sensor scores

The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Pentax WG-3 camera has excellent color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also excellent, allowing it to retain high amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is excellent, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the WG-3 is excellent

Crop Factor

Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.

Size comparison

Medium FormatFull FrameAPS-C (Sony, Nikon)

Crop factor calculator

Crop factor

1x

Full frame equivalent

24mm

This camera: 1/2.3-inch

24mm

850100150200

Connectivity, storage, battery

StorageSD/SDHC/SDXC card, Internal
Battery Life240 shots
Battery ModelD-LI92
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Pentax WG-3 supports SD/SDHC/SDXC card, Internal with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.

Battery

The Pentax WG-3 uses the D-LI92 model of battery pack. This is rated for 240 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.

Photography Features

Flash

The Pentax WG-3 has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. However it lacks an external flash shoe, which limits you to using the built-in flash.

Shutter

The Pentax WG-3 boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/4000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.

With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.

Autofocus

The Pentax WG-3 includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with 9 number of focus points.

While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.

Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.

On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.

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FAQ

What is the sensor size of the Pentax WG-3?

The Pentax WG-3 features a BSI-CMOS sensor

Is the Pentax WG-3 weather sealed?

Yes the WG-3 does have weather sealing.

When was the Pentax WG-3 announced?

The Pentax WG-3 was announced on Jul 19 2013

Does the Pentax WG-3 have in-body image stabilization?

Yes the WG-3 does have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.

What is the ISO range of the Pentax WG-3?

The WG-3 has a native ISO range of 125-6400, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

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