Olympus 550WP vs Ricoh GR Digital IV

The following is a extended analysis of the Olympus 550WP vs Ricoh GR Digital IV, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by competitors Olympus and Ricoh. The resolution of the 550WP (10MP) and the GR Digital IV (10MP) is fairly similar but the 550WP (1/2.3") and GR Digital IV (1/1.7") come with totally different sensor sizing.

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The 550WP was introduced 3 years prior to the GR Digital IV which is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a complete comparison, below is a brief summary of how the 550WP matches up vs the GR Digital IV in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus 550WP & Ricoh GR Digital IV. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus 550WP Gallery & Ricoh GR Digital IV Gallery.

When you are intending to travel with your camera, you'll need to factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus 550WP provides exterior measurements of 94mm x 62mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) while the Ricoh GR Digital IV has dimensions of 109mm x 59mm x 33mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.3") along with a weight of 190 grams (0.42 lbs).

Check the Olympus 550WP vs Ricoh GR Digital IV in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are using at the time. Underneath is the front view physical size comparison of the 550WP against the GR Digital IV.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the 550WP and GR Digital IV is 94 and 92 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor dimensions only by reviewing a spec sheet. The pic underneath will give you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the 550WP and GR Digital IV.

As you can see, each of these cameras offer the same exact MP but not the same sensor dimensions. The 550WP uses the tinier sensor which will make getting shallow DOF more challenging. The more aged 550WP is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.