Panasonic FH8 vs Ricoh GR Digital IV

In this article, we are looking at the Panasonic FH8 vs Ricoh GR Digital IV, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by brands Panasonic and Ricoh. There is a sizable difference among the image resolutions of the FH8 (16MP) and GR Digital IV (10MP) and the FH8 (1/2.3") and GR Digital IV (1/1.7") come with totally different sensor sizing.

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The FH8 was introduced 4 months later than the GR Digital IV and they are both of a similar age. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a brief overview of how the FH8 grades vs the GR Digital IV in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8 & Ricoh GR Digital IV. The whole galleries are viewable at Panasonic FH8 Gallery & Ricoh GR Digital IV Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry your camera frequently, you have to factor its weight and size. The Panasonic FH8 features external measurements of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") having a weight of 123 grams (0.27 lbs) while the Ricoh GR Digital IV has specifications of 109mm x 59mm x 33mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 190 grams (0.42 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic FH8 vs Ricoh GR Digital IV in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are employing during that time. Underneath is the front view over all size comparison of the FH8 and the GR Digital IV.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the FH8 and GR Digital IV is 96 and 92 respectively.

Oftentimes, its tough to visualise the gap in sensor sizing purely by looking through a spec sheet. The visual below might provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the FH8 and GR Digital IV.

Clearly, both of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The FH8 with its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower DOF trickier and the Panasonic FH8 will provide you with more detail using its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos a little more aggressively.