Olympus XZ-1 vs Ricoh CX4

In this write-up, we will be reviewing the Olympus XZ-1 vs Ricoh CX4, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Olympus and Ricoh. The sensor resolution of the XZ-1 (10MP) and the CX4 (10MP) is relatively well matched but the XZ-1 (1/1.63") and CX4 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor sizing.

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The XZ-1 was introduced 6 months later than the CX4 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a concise summary of how the XZ-1 matches up vs the CX4 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus XZ-1 and Ricoh CX4. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus XZ-1 Gallery and Ricoh CX4 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to lug around your camera regularly, you'll have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Olympus XZ-1 provides physical measurements of 111mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.7") having a weight of 275 grams (0.61 lbs) and the Ricoh CX4 has proportions of 102mm x 59mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 205 grams (0.45 lbs).

Check the Olympus XZ-1 vs Ricoh CX4 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are working with at the time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the XZ-1 and the CX4.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the XZ-1 and CX4 is 88 and 92 respectively.

More often than not, its hard to envision the difference between sensor measurements purely by reading through specifications. The photograph below should offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the XZ-1 and CX4.

To sum up, both of these cameras offer the same exact megapixels albeit not the same sensor measurements. The XZ-1 has the bigger sensor which is going to make achieving shallower depth of field less difficult.