Olympus 1 vs Ricoh CX4

On this page, we will be looking at the Olympus 1 and Ricoh CX4, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Olympus and Ricoh. The resolution of the 1 (12MP) and the CX4 (10MP) is relatively similar but the 1 (1/1.7") and CX4 (1/2.3") have different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The 1 was announced 3 years later than the CX4 and that is quite a sizable difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus 1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Ricoh CX4 being a Compact camera.

Before getting right into a full comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the 1 scores against the CX4 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus 1 & Ricoh CX4. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus 1 Gallery & Ricoh CX4 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to lug around your camera often, you will need to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus 1 has physical measurements of 116mm x 87mm x 57mm (4.6" x 3.4" x 2.2") and a weight of 402 grams (0.89 lbs) whilst the Ricoh CX4 has measurements of 102mm x 59mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 205 grams (0.45 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus 1 and Ricoh CX4 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you select at that moment. The following is a front view measurements comparison of the 1 and the CX4.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the 1 and CX4 is 79 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it is very tough to imagine the difference between sensor measurements purely by reviewing technical specs. The photograph below might give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the 1 and CX4.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The 1 having a bigger sensor is going to make achieving shallower depth of field less difficult and the Olympus 1 will offer more detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The younger 1 should have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.