Panasonic LX5 vs Ricoh CX3

Here is a comprehensive assessment of the Panasonic LX5 vs Ricoh CX3, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Panasonic and Ricoh. The sensor resolution of the LX5 (10MP) and the CX3 (10MP) is relatively similar but the LX5 (1/1.63") and CX3 (1/2.3") possess different sensor dimensions.

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The LX5 was manufactured 19 months later than the CX3 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple summary of how the LX5 grades versus the CX3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5 and Ricoh CX3. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic LX5 Gallery and Ricoh CX3 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry your camera regularly, you're going to have to factor in its weight and size. The Panasonic LX5 features external measurements of 110mm x 65mm x 43mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.7") having a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) while the Ricoh CX3 has specifications of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") along with a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic LX5 vs Ricoh CX3 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have chosen at that time. Below is the front view scale comparison of the LX5 versus the CX3.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the LX5 and CX3 is 88 and 92 respectively.

In many cases, it is very hard to picture the contrast between sensor sizing simply by going over specs. The photograph here will provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the LX5 and CX3.

As you can plainly see, the two cameras offer the same exact resolution albeit different sensor sizing. The LX5 includes the bigger sensor which should make getting shallow depth of field simpler. The fresher LX5 provides an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.