Panasonic ZR1 vs Ricoh CX4

Its time to examine more closely at the Panasonic ZR1 versus Ricoh CX4, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Panasonic and Ricoh. The sensor resolution of the ZR1 (12MP) and the CX4 (10MP) is relatively similar and they possess the exact same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The ZR1 was launched 12 months prior to the CX4 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving straight into a full comparison, below is a concise summation of how the ZR1 grades against the CX4 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1 and Ricoh CX4. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic ZR1 Gallery and Ricoh CX4 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to lug around your camera, you are going to need to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic ZR1 comes with outer dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") along with a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Ricoh CX4 has proportions of 102mm x 59mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 205 grams (0.45 lbs).

Compare the Panasonic ZR1 versus Ricoh CX4 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Here is the front view size comparison of the ZR1 versus the CX4.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the ZR1 and CX4 is 94 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it is difficult to visualize the gap between sensor measurements only by reviewing specs. The visual below should give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the ZR1 and CX4.

As you can plainly see, each of the cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements albeit different resolution. You should count on the Panasonic ZR1 to offer you more detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures somewhat more aggressively. The older ZR1 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.