Panasonic LX5 vs Ricoh GR Digital III

Following is a in depth comparison of the Panasonic LX5 and Ricoh GR Digital III, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by competitors Panasonic and Ricoh. The sensor resolution of the LX5 (10MP) and the GR Digital III (10MP) is pretty similar but the LX5 (1/1.63") and GR Digital III (1/1.7") provide totally different sensor measurements.

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The LX5 was launched 2 years after the GR Digital III which is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving into a full comparison, here is a quick summation of how the LX5 grades versus the GR Digital III in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5 and Ricoh GR Digital III. The complete galleries are available at Panasonic LX5 Gallery and Ricoh GR Digital III Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry around your camera, you should factor in its weight and volume. The Panasonic LX5 has exterior dimensions of 110mm x 65mm x 43mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.7") along with a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) while the Ricoh GR Digital III has sizing of 109mm x 59mm x 26mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.0") with a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic LX5 and Ricoh GR Digital III in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you select at that time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the LX5 and the GR Digital III.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the LX5 and GR Digital III is 88 and 92 respectively.

In many cases, it can be tough to see the difference between sensor sizes purely by going over specifications. The image underneath will provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the LX5 and GR Digital III.

To sum up, both of these cameras provide the same MP albeit not the same sensor sizes. The LX5 includes the bigger sensor which will make achieving shallower DOF easier. The fresher LX5 will have an advantage in sensor technology.