Pentax WG-90 Black Waterproof Camera or Pentax WG-90 Blue Genuine Waterproof? Which Pentax Model to Buy
Compare 2 Pentax WG-90 rugged cameras by weight, depth, and hardware to help you choose the right model for your outdoor gear.
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This pentax wg 90 black waterproof camera vs wg 90 blue genuine waterproof comparison covers two versions of the same rugged platform. Both cameras feature a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor, 14-meter waterproofing for up to two hours, and six LED macro lights around the lens. The main differences appear in their exterior colors, cataloged dimensions, and listed weights, with the black variant weighing 6.72 ounces and the blue variant weighing 6.1 ounces.
Body color
Black
WG-90 Blue
Weight
6.72 ounces
6.1 ounces
Model number
02136
2143
Video resolution
Full HD
Not listed
Stabilization
Triple anti-shake protection
Not listed
Optical zoom
5x optical zoom (28mm wide-angle)
Not listed
Choose the first if
- You want a classic black finish with documented Full HD video and triple anti-shake protection.
- You prefer documented dimensions of 4.82 by 2.42 by 1.16 inches.
Choose the second if
- You prefer a bright WG-90 Blue exterior.
- You prioritize a lighter listed carrying weight of 6.1 ounces.
Verdict
Both models share the same core rugged architecture, including 14-meter waterproofing, freezeproof construction, and a 16-megapixel sensor flanked by macro LEDs. The black model provides explicitly confirmed specifications for video capture and optical stabilization. The blue variant suits you if you prefer its exterior styling and lower documented weight.
Pentax WG-90 Color Model Comparison
Rugged build and waterproofing
Edge: Tie
Both cameras share identical environmental ratings. Pentax WG-90 Black operates underwater down to 14 meters for up to two hours continuously. Pentax WG-90 Blue matches this depth at 39.8 feet, or 14 meters, for two hours. Both housings resist shock from falls up to 1.6 meters and withstand freezing conditions down to -10°C. You get dustproof protection on both models for harsh outdoor environments. Neither camera holds an advantage in cold, impact, or submersion tolerance because their published structural ratings are identical. If your priority is underwater endurance or drop resistance, both options deliver the exact same physical limits.
Body weight and portability
Edge: Pentax WG-90 Waterproof Camera
When you carry gear on long hikes or pack light for travel, total weight matters. Pentax WG-90 Blue weighs 6.1 ounces according to its specification sheet. Pentax WG-90 Black lists an official weight of 6.72 ounces, making it slightly heavier in your pocket or pack. In terms of exterior dimensions, Pentax WG-90 Black measures 4.82 inches wide, 2.42 inches high, and 1.16 inches long. The Blue version lists dimensions of 9.1 by 9.1 by 9.1 inches. Pentax WG-90 Blue takes the edge here strictly on published carrying weight, saving you over half an ounce of total mass.
Stabilization and optical zoom
Edge: Pentax WG-90 Waterproof Camera
Framing subjects from a distance requires optical range and steady framing. Pentax WG-90 Black comes equipped with a 5X optical zoom lens offering a focal length from 5mm to 25mm, equivalent to 28mm wide-angle coverage. It also specifies triple anti-shake protection to counter handheld blur in photos and clips. In contrast, the published data for Pentax WG-90 Blue does not list an optical zoom range, focal lengths, or image stabilization hardware. If you need confirmed stabilization to steady handheld shots and a documented optical zoom range for versatile framing, Pentax WG-90 Black provides the verified features.
Sensor and image sensitivity
Edge: Tie
Image capture performance relies on sensor technology and ISO capabilities. Pentax WG-90 Black and Pentax WG-90 Blue use the exact same imaging hardware. Each camera features a back-illuminated, 16-megapixel CMOS image sensor paired with a high-performance imaging engine. Both models deliver a top light sensitivity rating of ISO 6400, helping you shoot in dim underwater or night environments. Furthermore, both cameras provide dedicated Underwater and Underwater Movie modes that adjust color balance and contrast for aquatic scenes. Because sensor resolution, physical sensor type, ISO limits, and processing modes match, this round is an even tie.
Close-up macro lighting
Edge: Tie
Macro photography demands even illumination when your camera lens sits close to tiny subjects. Pentax WG-90 Black and Pentax WG-90 Blue share identical close-up toolsets. Both models integrate six LED macro lights positioned directly around the circumference of the lens barrel. This ring arrangement provides uniform illumination across small subjects without casting harsh shadows from the camera body. Additionally, both cameras incorporate a specialized Digital Microscope mode to record magnified images invisible to the naked eye. Because both cameras offer the same six-LED ring array and microscope functions, neither device holds an advantage for macro work.
Choosing the Right Pentax WG-90
Outdoor travelers counting every ounce of gear
Our pick: Pentax WG-90 Waterproof Camera
At 6.1 ounces, the blue model is lighter than the 6.72-ounce black edition. You get identical 14-meter waterproofing, 1.6-meter shock resistance, and -10°C freeze-proofing in a lighter build. Its 16-megapixel sensor and six LED macro ring lights deliver clear close-up shots while saving pack weight on extended outdoor journeys.
Shooters wanting documented image stabilization and zoom
Our pick: Pentax WG-90 Waterproof Camera
The black camera specifies triple anti-shake protection and a 5x optical zoom lens covering 5mm to 25mm. You also gain documented Full HD video recording in H.264 format. Its compact 4.82 by 2.42-inch dimensions pack 16 megapixels, 14-meter submersion, and six LED macro lights for steady handheld framing in rugged conditions.
Field photographers needing high-visibility gear outdoors
Our pick: Pentax WG-90 Waterproof Camera
Choosing the WG-90 Blue gives you a distinct exterior color that stands out against dark rocks, sand, or water. You still receive 14-meter waterproof endurance for two hours, sub-zero operation to -10°C, and 1.6-meter drop protection. Its 16-megapixel sensor and six-LED macro cluster ensure detailed macro captures wherever you work.
Pentax WG-90 Waterproof Camera
Best for: Rugged underwater and macro outdoor photography
- Video Resolution
- Full HD
- Stabilization
- Triple anti-shake protection
- Waterproof Depth
- 14 meters
- Photo Resolution
- 16-megapixel
- Dimensions
- 1.16 × 4.82 × 2.42 inches
- Weight
- 6.72 ounces
The Pentax WG-90 Black is an all-weather compact camera built for harsh environments. It features a 16-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor, a 5x optical zoom lens, and water resistance down to 14 meters for up to two hours. Six lens-mounted LEDs aid close-up macro shots. It suits you if you need a durable field camera with a low-profile black finish for outdoor or underwater capture.
- Waterproof to 14 meters for up to two hours continuously
- Built-in 6-LED ring light for macro and digital microscope modes
- Shockproof against drops up to 1.6 meters and freezeproof to -10°C
- 5x optical zoom lens spanning 5mm to 25mm focal lengths
- Video recording caps at Full HD rather than 4K resolution
- Optical zoom range is limited to 5x
- You need cold-weather durability down to -10°C and drop protection up to 1.6 meters.
- You take close-up macro shots requiring built-in ring-light illumination.
- You want a discreet black chassis for outdoor work.
- You require 4K video recording for your footage.
- You need long-range telephoto reach beyond a 5x optical zoom.
Verdict: Pentax WG-90 Black Waterproof Camera suits outdoor photographers who prioritize macro ring lighting and rugged cold-weather protection over high-resolution 4K video.
Pentax WG-90 Waterproof Camera
Best for: snorkeling and illuminated close-up macro photography
- Waterproof Depth
- 39.8 ft (14 m)
- Photo Resolution
- 16-megapixel
- Dimensions
- 9.1 × 9.1 × 9.1 inches
- Weight
- 6.1 ounces
The Pentax WG-90 Blue is a rugged compact camera designed for wet, cold environments. You get a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor, waterproofing down to 14 meters for two continuous hours, and six ring-mounted LED macro lights. It also withstands 1.6-meter drops and temperatures to -10°C. This body suits you if you need a visible outdoor camera for snorkeling and macro work.
- Waterproof to 14 meters (39.8 feet) for up to two continuous hours
- Shockproof from 1.6 meters and freeze-proof down to -10°C
- Six LED macro lights around the lens for even close-up illumination
- Dedicated Underwater and Underwater Movie modes for color balance
- Waterproof depth rating caps at 14 meters without external housing
- Data does not specify built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth transfer
- You need continuous underwater shooting down to 14 meters for up to two hours.
- You shoot close-up subjects requiring built-in lens lighting and Digital Microscope mode.
- You dive deeper than 14 meters.
- You require wireless photo transfer capabilities.
Verdict: Pentax WG-90 Blue Waterproof Camera suits outdoor photographers who need reliable 14-meter waterproofing and ring-lit close-up shooting in a high-visibility blue frame.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Pentax WG-90 Waterproof Camera | Pentax WG-90 Waterproof Camera |
|---|---|---|
| Video Resolution | Full HD | – |
| Stabilization | Triple anti-shake protection | – |
| Waterproof Depth | 14 meters | 39.8 ft (14 m) |
| Photo Resolution | 16-megapixel | 16-megapixel |
| Dimensions | 1.16 × 4.82 × 2.42 inches | 9.1 × 9.1 × 9.1 inches |
| Weight | 6.72 ounces | 6.1 ounces |
| Size | 3.27 | – |
| Color | Black | WG-90 Blue |
| Model | 02136 | 2143 |
Frequently asked questions
What are the official manufacturer model numbers for the black and blue Pentax WG-90 cameras?
The black Pentax WG-90 carries model number 02136, while the blue edition carries model number 2143. Checking these specific numbers ensures you receive the correct exterior trim. Both units share the WG-90 core platform, which emphasizes rugged cold-weather durability alongside integrated macro ring lighting for close-up outdoor imagery.
How do the listed physical dimensions differ between the black and blue Pentax WG-90?
The black Pentax WG-90 measures 4.82 inches wide, 2.42 inches high, and 1.16 inches long. The blue edition lists dimensions of 9.1 inches across width, height, and length in its product specifications. For tight gear compartments or pocket storage, the black model lists a slim 1.16-inch depth profile.
How much do the black and blue Pentax WG-90 cameras weigh?
The blue Pentax WG-90 weighs 6.1 ounces, while the black model weighs 6.72 ounces. If you want the lighter build for extended outdoor carry, the blue model cuts down slightly on overall pack weight. Both compact options remain easy to secure to a wrist strap or harness during active use.
Does either Pentax WG-90 model offer 4K video recording?
Neither version of the Pentax WG-90 includes 4K video recording capabilities. The system prioritizes macro ring illumination and cold-weather toughness over high-resolution video capture. If you record standard clips during outdoor adventures, you rely on the built-in shooting modes rather than ultra-high-definition video resolutions.
Which Pentax WG-90 version is recommended for snorkeling and illuminated macro photography?
The blue Pentax WG-90 is explicitly designated for snorkeling and illuminated close-up macro photography. Its ring-lit configuration illuminates tiny subjects clearly underwater, while the vivid exterior frame provides high visibility in open water. The black edition is designated primarily for rugged underwater and macro outdoor photography.
Can you use the Pentax WG-90 in freezing outdoor conditions?
You can use the black Pentax WG-90 in freezing environments because its design prioritizes rugged cold-weather protection. Both cameras are built to handle challenging conditions where standard electronics struggle. This makes the lineup suitable for winter trail hikes, snowy landscapes, and damp outdoor expeditions where sub-zero temperatures are common.
