Panasonic LX3 vs Ricoh WG-4

Below, we are matching up the Panasonic LX3 versus Ricoh WG-4, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Waterproof by manufacturers Panasonic and Ricoh. There is a significant difference among the sensor resolutions of the LX3 (10MP) and WG-4 (16MP) and the LX3 (1/1.63") and WG-4 (1/2.3") use different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The LX3 was brought out 6 years prior to the WG-4 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before going in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief view of how the LX3 matches up against the WG-4 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 and Ricoh WG-4. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic LX3 Gallery and Ricoh WG-4 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry your camera often, you will want to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic LX3 comes with outer measurements of 109mm x 60mm x 27mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.1") and a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs) while the Ricoh WG-4 has specifications of 124mm x 64mm x 33mm (4.9" x 2.5" x 1.3") having a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs).

Look at the Panasonic LX3 versus Ricoh WG-4 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose at that moment. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the LX3 compared to the WG-4.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the LX3 and WG-4 is 91 and 90 respectively.

Generally, it can be hard to visualize the gap in sensor sizing just by looking through specifications. The graphic here may provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the LX3 and WG-4.

To sum up, both of these cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The LX3 featuring a larger sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF less difficult and the Ricoh WG-4 will provide you with more detail having its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will enable you to crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The older LX3 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.