Panasonic SZ5 vs Ricoh WG-4 GPS

In this write-up, we will be contrasting the Panasonic SZ5 versus Ricoh WG-4 GPS, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Waterproof by companies Panasonic and Ricoh. The resolution of the SZ5 (14MP) and the WG-4 GPS (16MP) is relatively similar and they feature the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ5 was unveiled 18 months earlier than the WG-4 GPS which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving in to a in depth comparison, below is a concise summary of how the SZ5 matches up vs the WG-4 GPS when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5 and Ricoh WG-4 GPS. The full galleries are available at Panasonic SZ5 Gallery and Ricoh WG-4 GPS Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry your camera often, you're going to have to consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic SZ5 offers physical dimensions of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs) whilst the Ricoh WG-4 GPS has measurements of 124mm x 64mm x 33mm (4.9" x 2.5" x 1.3") along with a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic SZ5 versus Ricoh WG-4 GPS in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you use at that moment. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the SZ5 and the WG-4 GPS.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SZ5 and WG-4 GPS is 95 and 90 respectively.

Quite often, it is difficult to picture the contrast between sensor sizing purely by reviewing technical specs. The photograph below will help offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ5 and WG-4 GPS.

As you have seen, both of those cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You should count on the Ricoh WG-4 GPS to deliver greater detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The older SZ5 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.