Panasonic LX3 vs Ricoh CX4

Below, we are looking at the Panasonic LX3 vs Ricoh CX4, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Panasonic and Ricoh. The image resolution of the LX3 (10MP) and the CX4 (10MP) is fairly close but the LX3 (1/1.63") and CX4 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor measurements.

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The LX3 was unveiled 21 months prior to the CX4 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Each of the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the LX3 grades versus the CX4 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 & Ricoh CX4. The full galleries are provided at Panasonic LX3 Gallery & Ricoh CX4 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you'll have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic LX3 enjoys exterior dimensions of 109mm x 60mm x 27mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.1") with a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs) and the Ricoh CX4 has dimensions of 102mm x 59mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 205 grams (0.45 lbs).

Check out the Panasonic LX3 vs Ricoh CX4 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have attached at the time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the LX3 against the CX4.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the LX3 and CX4 is 91 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it is difficult to visualise the gap in sensor measurements only by researching technical specs. The graphic underneath might provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the LX3 and CX4.

As you can tell, both of those cameras posses the exact same MP but not the same sensor measurements. The LX3 provides the larger sensor which will make achieving shallower depth of field simpler. The older LX3 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.