Panasonic FH8 vs Ricoh CX3

Here, we are reviewing the Panasonic FH8 versus Ricoh CX3, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Panasonic and Ricoh. There is a big difference between the image resolutions of the FH8 (16MP) and CX3 (10MP) but both cameras offer the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The FH8 was announced 20 months later than the CX3 making them a generation apart from each other. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before going into a thorough comparison, here is a quick view of how the FH8 grades against the CX3 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8 and Ricoh CX3. The whole galleries are provided at Panasonic FH8 Gallery and Ricoh CX3 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry your camera frequently, you're going to have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic FH8 has physical dimensions of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") along with a weight of 123 grams (0.27 lbs) and the Ricoh CX3 has dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic FH8 versus Ricoh CX3 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are using at the time. Underneath is a front view overall size comparison of the FH8 versus the CX3.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the FH8 and CX3 is 96 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it's tough to imagine the gap between sensor sizing merely by going over technical specs. The photograph underneath will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the FH8 and CX3.

As you can tell, both the cameras come with the identical sensor size but different MP. You should expect to see the Panasonic FH8 to offer more detail with its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop images a good deal more aggressively. The fresher FH8 provides an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.