Pentax MX-1 vs Ricoh WG-20

Its time to look much closer at the Pentax MX-1 versus Ricoh WG-20, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Waterproof by competitors Pentax and Ricoh. The image resolution of the MX-1 (12MP) and the WG-20 (14MP) is pretty comparable but the MX-1 (1/1.7") and WG-20 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor sizes.

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The MX-1 was revealed 7 months prior to the WG-20 so they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go straight to a complete comparison, here is a brief view of how the MX-1 grades versus the WG-20 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax MX-1 and Ricoh WG-20. The full galleries are provided at Pentax MX-1 Gallery and Ricoh WG-20 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to lug around your camera, you will want to consider its weight and volume. The Pentax MX-1 has outer measurements of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") having a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs) while the Ricoh WG-20 has sizing of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 164 grams (0.36 lbs).

Analyze the Pentax MX-1 versus Ricoh WG-20 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you choose at that time. Below is a front view scale comparison of the MX-1 versus the WG-20.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the MX-1 and WG-20 is 84 and 93 respectively.

Sometimes, its difficult to see the contrast in sensor measurements simply by checking out a spec sheet. The visual below may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the MX-1 and WG-20.

Clearly, both of the cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The MX-1 having a bigger sensor will make getting shallow DOF simpler and the Ricoh WG-20 will provide more detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop pictures more aggressively. The older MX-1 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.