Panasonic FH1 vs Ricoh WG-4 GPS

In this article, we will be comparing the Panasonic FH1 versus Ricoh WG-4 GPS, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Waterproof by rivals Panasonic and Ricoh. There is a large difference among the image resolutions of the FH1 (12MP) and WG-4 GPS (16MP) but they use the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The FH1 was brought out 5 years prior to the WG-4 GPS and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go straight into a complete comparison, below is a simple summary of how the FH1 scores against the WG-4 GPS with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH1 & Ricoh WG-4 GPS. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH1 Gallery & Ricoh WG-4 GPS Gallery.

In case you're going to carry your camera regularly, you should factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FH1 offers external dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 163 grams (0.36 lbs) while the Ricoh WG-4 GPS has dimensions of 124mm x 64mm x 33mm (4.9" x 2.5" x 1.3") having a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic FH1 versus Ricoh WG-4 GPS in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you have during that time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the FH1 compared to the WG-4 GPS.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the FH1 and WG-4 GPS is 95 and 90 respectively.

Generally, it is tough to visualize the difference in sensor sizing purely by going through specifications. The graphic below might give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the FH1 and WG-4 GPS.

Plainly, both cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You can expect the Ricoh WG-4 GPS to produce more detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots far more aggressively. The older FH1 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.