Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Ricoh CX4

Let's take a closer look at the Olympus XZ-2 iHS and Ricoh CX4, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Olympus and Ricoh. The resolution of the XZ-2 iHS (12MP) and the CX4 (10MP) is fairly similar but the XZ-2 iHS (1/1.7") and CX4 (1/2.3") provide totally different sensor sizing.

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The XZ-2 iHS was released 2 years after the CX4 which is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the XZ-2 iHS grades against the CX4 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus XZ-2 iHS and Ricoh CX4. The complete galleries are available at Olympus XZ-2 iHS Gallery and Ricoh CX4 Gallery.

If you're going to carry around your camera frequently, you will want to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus XZ-2 iHS provides external measurements of 113mm x 65mm x 48mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.9") having a weight of 346 grams (0.76 lbs) while the Ricoh CX4 has measurements of 102mm x 59mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 205 grams (0.45 lbs).

Check the Olympus XZ-2 iHS and Ricoh CX4 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you select at that time. Following is a front view over all size comparison of the XZ-2 iHS versus the CX4.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the XZ-2 iHS and CX4 is 85 and 92 respectively.

In many cases, it is tough to visualise the contrast between sensor sizes merely by reading technical specs. The picture underneath might give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the XZ-2 iHS and CX4.

As you can tell, both of those cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The XZ-2 iHS featuring a larger sensor will make getting shallow DOF easier and the Olympus XZ-2 iHS will offer greater detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will help you crop photos more aggressively. The more recent XZ-2 iHS is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.