Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Ricoh CX1

Here is a thorough assessment of the Olympus XZ-2 iHS and Ricoh CX1, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by competitors Olympus and Ricoh. There exists a noticeable gap between the sensor resolutions of the XZ-2 iHS (12MP) and CX1 (9MP) and the XZ-2 iHS (1/1.7") and CX1 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The XZ-2 iHS was revealed 3 years later than the CX1 and that is quite a sizable difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving right into a in depth comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the XZ-2 iHS grades versus the CX1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus XZ-2 iHS & Ricoh CX1. The full galleries are provided at Olympus XZ-2 iHS Gallery & Ricoh CX1 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera often, you are going to need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus XZ-2 iHS provides exterior measurements of 113mm x 65mm x 48mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.9") and a weight of 346 grams (0.76 lbs) and the Ricoh CX1 has dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 180 grams (0.40 lbs).

Check out the Olympus XZ-2 iHS and Ricoh CX1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are employing during that time. Following is a front view physical size comparison of the XZ-2 iHS compared to the CX1.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the XZ-2 iHS and CX1 is 85 and 93 respectively.

Normally, it's tough to envision the gap between sensor sizing merely by reviewing technical specs. The photograph below might give you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the XZ-2 iHS and CX1.

As you can tell, both the cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The XZ-2 iHS having a bigger sensor will make achieving shallow DOF easier and the Olympus XZ-2 iHS will deliver more detail because of its extra 3 Megapixels. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more modern XZ-2 iHS is going to have an edge with regard to sensor tech.