Panasonic FS12 vs Ricoh WG-4

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Panasonic FS12 and Ricoh WG-4, one is a Ultracompact and the other is a Waterproof by rivals Panasonic and Ricoh. There exists a significant gap between the resolutions of the FS12 (12MP) and WG-4 (16MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The FS12 was introduced 5 years before the WG-4 which is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FS12 being a Ultracompact camera and the Ricoh WG-4 being a Compact camera.

Before getting through a thorough comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the FS12 matches up vs the WG-4 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS12 and Ricoh WG-4. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic FS12 Gallery and Ricoh WG-4 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry around your camera often, you're going to have to consider its weight and size. The Panasonic FS12 enjoys outside measurements of 97mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 129 grams (0.28 lbs) whilst the Ricoh WG-4 has specifications of 124mm x 64mm x 33mm (4.9" x 2.5" x 1.3") and a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic FS12 and Ricoh WG-4 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are utilising at that time. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the FS12 compared to the WG-4.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the FS12 and WG-4 is 95 and 90 respectively.

More often than not, its tough to picture the difference between sensor sizes merely by going over technical specs. The image below should give you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the FS12 and WG-4.

As you have seen, both of those cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but different MP. You should expect to see the Ricoh WG-4 to offer you more detail using its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop photos a little more aggressively. The more aged FS12 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.