Olympus 550WP vs Ricoh CX4

Let's look more closely at the Olympus 550WP and Ricoh CX4, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Olympus and Ricoh. The image resolution of the 550WP (10MP) and the CX4 (10MP) is relatively well matched and both cameras offer the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The 550WP was released 19 months earlier than the CX4 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving right into a in depth comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the 550WP matches up against the CX4 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus 550WP and Ricoh CX4. The complete galleries are available at Olympus 550WP Gallery and Ricoh CX4 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry your camera, you need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus 550WP has outer dimensions of 94mm x 62mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) and the Ricoh CX4 has dimensions of 102mm x 59mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 205 grams (0.45 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus 550WP and Ricoh CX4 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are using at that time. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the 550WP versus the CX4.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the 550WP and CX4 is 94 and 92 respectively.

Usually, it can be difficult to envision the gap between sensor sizing merely by looking at specs. The visual underneath might offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the 550WP and CX4.

All in all, the 2 cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the exact same resolution therefore you should expect similar quality of pictures though you have to take the release date of the products into consideration. The older 550WP is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.