Ricoh Pentax WG-90 Pre-order price, specs, and release date

Ricoh introduced the Pentax WG-90 in November 2023, and it is currently open for pre-order on various online platforms. This version marks a fresh iteration of its compact adventurer camera, incorporating most features from its predecessor while introducing the words “Pentax,” along with a USB-C port and a new metallic blue finish.

The WG series undergoes another transformation. Initially launched under the Pentax banner in 2011, it shifted to the Ricoh brand in 2014 as Pentax became exclusively associated with SLRs. Towards the end of 2023, the Japanese manufacturer is altering its approach once more. Merely a year and a half after the WG-80 (a marginal revision of the WG-70 from 2020), the latest WG-90 returns to the Pentax name.

On the technical side, distinctions between the Pentax WG-90 and its Ricoh-branded predecessor are rather subtle. It remains an ultra-reinforced compact, capable of enduring 2 hours of immersion at a depth of 14 m, withstanding a fall of 1.6 m, or handling a crushing force of 100 kg—ideal for enthusiasts of photography in extreme environments. The 2.7-inch LCD screen (0.23 Mpts) retains anti-reflective treatment.

Similar to its forerunner, the WG-90 relies on a 16 Mpx 1/2.3-inch (6.17 x 45 mm) backlit CMOS sensor. Maximum sensitivity extends to ISO 6400. It preserves the 28-140mm equivalent lens (x5 zoom), extended by an x36 digital zoom (1008 mm equivalent).

The camera features 25 scene modes, including those designed for underwater photos or video, water activities, winter sports, night photography, and more. In “underwater photo” mode, the camera captures two consecutive views with a press of the shutter button—one with flash, the other without.

The 6 LEDs around the lens are useful in underwater photography and portraiture, particularly in macro mode, enabling the capture of photos from just 1 cm away from the subject. Users can adjust LED power to five levels for optimal subject rendering. The “Digital Microscope” mode combines optical and electronic zoom for enhanced capabilities.

Video capabilities remain fixed at Full HD 30p. Additionally, the camera includes a timelapse mode that allows for fine adjustment of the interval between shots (1.5, 10, 30, or 60 minutes) with internal assembly possibilities.

Battery-wise, the WG-90 boasts a maximum life of 300 photos. Notably, it adopts a USB-C port, although limited to the USB 2.0 standard—unfortunately, the main novelty of this model, as observed with its rival, the OM System TG-7.

Pentax WG-90 price and release date

The new Pentax WG-90 is now available for pre-order at $326.95 on Adorama.com, $329.95 on Amazon.com and Bhphotovideo.com, and £379.99 on Amazon.co.uk. Reflecting the times, the case departs from the usual orange finish and offers black or blue options.