Ricoh CX1 vs Ricoh WG-M1

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Ricoh CX1 and Ricoh WG-M1, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Waterproof and both of them are produced by Ricoh. There is a significant difference between the sensor resolutions of the CX1 (9MP) and WG-M1 (14MP) but they feature the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The CX1 was announced 6 years earlier than the WG-M1 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a complete comparison, below is a quick view of how the CX1 matches up versus the WG-M1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Ricoh CX1 and Ricoh WG-M1. The whole galleries are viewable at Ricoh CX1 Gallery and Ricoh WG-M1 Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor in its weight and size. The Ricoh CX1 features external dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 180 grams (0.40 lbs) whilst the Ricoh WG-M1 has specifications of 66mm x 43mm x 89mm (2.6" x 1.7" x 3.5") with a weight of 190 grams (0.42 lbs).

Take a look at the Ricoh CX1 and Ricoh WG-M1 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have attached at that moment. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the CX1 and the WG-M1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the CX1 and WG-M1 is 93 and 91 respectively.

Often, it is very tough to imagine the gap between sensor sizing only by checking specifications. The photograph below may provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the CX1 and WG-M1.

To sum up, each of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You should count on the Ricoh WG-M1 to resolve extra detail with its extra 5 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots far more aggressively. The older CX1 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.