Canon SX400 IS vs Ricoh GR Digital IV

In this write-up, we are contrasting the Canon SX400 IS vs Ricoh GR Digital IV, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Canon and Ricoh. There is a large difference between the image resolutions of the SX400 IS (16MP) and GR Digital IV (10MP) and the SX400 IS (1/2.3") and GR Digital IV (1/1.7") feature different sensor dimensions.

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The SX400 IS was announced 2 years later than the GR Digital IV and that is quite a serious difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go in to a more detailed comparison, below is a brief overview of how the SX400 IS scores against the GR Digital IV when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX400 IS & Ricoh GR Digital IV. The whole galleries are available at Canon SX400 IS Gallery & Ricoh GR Digital IV Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera often, you will have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Canon SX400 IS comes with outside measurements of 104mm x 69mm x 80mm (4.1" x 2.7" x 3.1") along with a weight of 313 grams (0.69 lbs) while the Ricoh GR Digital IV has dimensions of 109mm x 59mm x 33mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.3") having a weight of 190 grams (0.42 lbs).

Compare the Canon SX400 IS vs Ricoh GR Digital IV in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are working with at the time. The following is the front view overall size comparison of the SX400 IS against the GR Digital IV.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the SX400 IS and GR Digital IV is 81 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it can be tough to visualize the gap between sensor sizing simply by looking at specs. The photograph below might give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the SX400 IS and GR Digital IV.

All in all, both cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The SX400 IS with its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF more difficult and the Canon SX400 IS will give you extra detail with its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop images far more aggressively. The more recent SX400 IS provides an edge in sensor tech.