Panasonic FH2 vs Ricoh GR

Following is a extended comparison of the Panasonic FH2 versus Ricoh GR, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Panasonic and Ricoh. The resolution of the FH2 (14MP) and the GR (16MP) is very similar but the FH2 (1/2.3") and GR (APS-C) enjoy totally different sensor dimensions.

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The FH2 was released 3 years earlier than the GR which is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Panasonic FH2 being a Compact camera and the Ricoh GR being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before going straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the FH2 scores against the GR when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH2 and Ricoh GR. The complete galleries are provided at Panasonic FH2 Gallery and Ricoh GR Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic FH2 has got external dimensions of 94mm x 54mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.7") with a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs) while the Ricoh GR has measurements of 117mm x 61mm x 35mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.4") with a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FH2 versus Ricoh GR in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have at that moment. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the FH2 against the GR.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FH2 and GR is 96 and 90 respectively.

Typically, it is very difficult to see the gap between sensor sizes purely by reading specs. The image here should offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the FH2 and GR.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The FH2 featuring a tinier sensor will make shooting shallower DOF more difficult and the Ricoh GR will offer greater detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos much more aggressively. The more aged FH2 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.