Olympus SZ-12 vs Ricoh WG-M1

In this article, we are looking at the Olympus SZ-12 vs Ricoh WG-M1, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Waterproof by manufacturers Olympus and Ricoh. The resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the WG-M1 (14MP) is very close and they feature the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SZ-12 was revealed 3 years earlier than the WG-M1 which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving through a complete comparison, below is a quick summation of how the SZ-12 scores versus the WG-M1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-12 and Ricoh WG-M1. The full galleries are available at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery and Ricoh WG-M1 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry around your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-12 offers outside measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Ricoh WG-M1 has measurements of 66mm x 43mm x 89mm (2.6" x 1.7" x 3.5") accompanied by a weight of 190 grams (0.42 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SZ-12 vs Ricoh WG-M1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have at that moment. Here is the front view overall size comparison of the SZ-12 against the WG-M1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-12 and WG-M1 is 89 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very hard to visualize the difference in sensor sizes only by viewing specifications. The image underneath will give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-12 and WG-M1.

Plainly, the two cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the exact same resolution so you should expect comparable quality of photographs although you have to take the production date of the cameras into account. The more aged SZ-12 will be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.