Pentax X-5 vs Ricoh GR Digital IV

Its time to look more closely at the Pentax X-5 versus Ricoh GR Digital IV, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Pentax and Ricoh. There exists a substantial gap among the sensor resolutions of the X-5 (16MP) and GR Digital IV (10MP) and the X-5 (1/2.3") and GR Digital IV (1/1.7") provide totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The X-5 was brought out 12 months later than the GR Digital IV so they are both of a similar age. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Pentax X-5 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Ricoh GR Digital IV being a Compact camera.

Before going into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the X-5 grades against the GR Digital IV with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Pentax X-5 & Ricoh GR Digital IV. The entire galleries are viewable at Pentax X-5 Gallery & Ricoh GR Digital IV Gallery.

When you are intending to carry your camera regularly, you need to think about its weight and measurements. The Pentax X-5 comes with outer measurements of 119mm x 86mm x 107mm (4.7" x 3.4" x 4.2") accompanied by a weight of 595 grams (1.31 lbs) and the Ricoh GR Digital IV has proportions of 109mm x 59mm x 33mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 190 grams (0.42 lbs).

See the Pentax X-5 versus Ricoh GR Digital IV in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are working with during that time. Following is a front view sizing comparison of the X-5 vs the GR Digital IV.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the X-5 and GR Digital IV is 65 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it is very difficult to see the gap in sensor sizing just by looking through specifications. The graphic below might give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the X-5 and GR Digital IV.

Plainly, the two cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The X-5 due to its smaller sensor will make shooting bokeh more difficult and the Pentax X-5 will render greater detail having its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will help you crop shots way more aggressively. The more recent X-5 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.