Canon SX170 IS vs Ricoh GR II

In this write-up, we will be reviewing the Canon SX170 IS vs Ricoh GR II, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by competitors Canon and Ricoh. The sensor resolution of the SX170 IS (16MP) and the GR II (16MP) is relatively similar but the SX170 IS (1/2.3") and GR II (APS-C) feature totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The SX170 IS was launched 22 months before the GR II which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Canon SX170 IS being a Compact camera and the Ricoh GR II being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before delving straight into a thorough comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the SX170 IS matches up against the GR II when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SX170 IS and Ricoh GR II. The complete galleries are provided at Canon SX170 IS Gallery and Ricoh GR II Gallery.

If you're planning to carry your camera, you are going to need to factor its weight and volume. The Canon SX170 IS features outside dimensions of 108mm x 71mm x 44mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.7") and a weight of 251 grams (0.55 lbs) whilst the Ricoh GR II has sizing of 117mm x 63mm x 35mm (4.6" x 2.5" x 1.4") and a weight of 251 grams (0.55 lbs).

Compare the Canon SX170 IS vs Ricoh GR II in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have at the time. Following is the front view sizing comparison of the SX170 IS compared to the GR II.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the SX170 IS and GR II is 88 and 89 respectively.

Often, it's hard to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing merely by going over specs. The visual underneath should give you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the SX170 IS and GR II.

All in all, both of these cameras offer the same exact MP albeit not the same sensor sizing. The SX170 IS contains the tinier sensor which should make getting shallower DOF more challenging. The older SX170 IS is going to be behind in sensor tech.