With cameras such as the Pentax WG-90, Ricoh already offers a range of waterproof compact cameras (such as the WG-90) that have been specially developed for underwater use. The latest top model, the Pentax WG-8, has even more robust housing, as the camera can be used underwater at a depth of 20 meters.
The housing is also designed to withstand drops from a height of up to 2.1 meters and temperatures of -10 °C. Moreover, it is protected against dust and is able to withstand pressure of over 100 kilograms. In addition to Xenon flash, Ricoh has installed six LEDs around the lens so that videos can be evenly illuminated. The Pentax WG-8 has a 20 MP sensor with a 1/2.3 inch sensor, which can record 4K videos at 30 frames per second.
The sensor supports a light sensitivity of ISO 100 to 64,000. The zoom lens has a 35 mm equivalent focal length of 28 - 140 mm and, depending on the focal length, a maximum aperture of f/3.5 - f/5.5. The camera itself has a 3-inch display with a resolution of 1.04 million pixels, an SD card reader and a rechargeable DB-110 battery, which is said to last for around 340 photos on a single charge. A practical aspect is that the battery can be charged directly in the camera via a USB-C cable.
Price and availability
The Pentax WG-8 compact camera is expected to be launched at the beginning of July 2024 at a recommended retail price of $399.95. Further details on the waterproof camera can be found on the official product page.