Looks like "the compact camera you can take ANYWHERE" is now discontinued, but a new one could be on the way
This much-loved camera is one of the toughest compacts around and could be disappearing from the market – but photographers who want more than a regular point-and-shoot may have reason to be hopeful
Photographers seeking a robust compact camera suitable for harsh environments have limited choices. Among these, the Pentax WG-90 stands out for its durability and performance. However, rumors suggest this model may soon be discontinued, with a potential replacement arriving later this year.
The WG-90, introduced in February 2024, earned praise for its versatility, capable of surviving water, sand, mud, extreme temperatures, and other challenging conditions. This ruggedness sets it apart from conventional compact cameras, making it an ideal choice for photographers who need to capture moments in the most demanding environments.
As a stills-only device, the WG-90 offers simplicity and ease-of-use, with a decent zoom range and macro capabilities. Despite some drawbacks, such as video quality and a smaller rear screen, its stills photography performance remains impressive.
According to a trusted source, Pentax & Ricoh Rumors, the manufacturer has informed authorized dealers that the WG-90 is being discontinued. They also claim that a new model will be announced by the end of the year. This information has yet to be officially confirmed, but it could signal a promising development for those seeking an enhanced rugged compact camera.
The WG-90, a refined version of the previous WG-80, shared many specifications with its predecessor. The availability of similar colors in the potential new model increases the likelihood of a truly next-generation device. Ricoh, the owner of the Pentax brand, may leverage this opportunity to further develop the concept.
While we await official confirmation from Ricoh, photographers can explore other waterproof cameras, compact cameras, and point-and-shoot cameras to meet their needs.
Written by urgent.news from Digital Camera World's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.