Ricoh CX2 vs Sony a1
93 Imaging
32 Features
35 Overall
33


61 Imaging
81 Features
93 Overall
85
Ricoh CX2 vs Sony a1 Key Specs
(Full Review)
- 9MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
- 3" Fixed Screen
- ISO 80 - 1600
- Sensor-shift Image Stabilization
- 640 x 480 video
- 28-300mm (F3.5-5.6) lens
- 185g - 102 x 58 x 29mm
- Released August 2009
(Full Review)
- 50MP - Full frame Sensor
- 3" Tilting Display
- ISO 100 - 32000 (Push to 102400)
- Sensor based 5-axis Image Stabilization
- 1/8000s Maximum Shutter
- 7680 x 4320 video
- Sony E Mount
- 737g - 129 x 97 x 70mm
- Introduced January 2021

Ricoh CX2 vs Sony Alpha a1: A Practical Guide to Two Very Different Cameras
Choosing the right camera can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with two models as distinct as the Ricoh CX2 and Sony Alpha a1. These cameras represent two vastly different eras, technologies, and user priorities. But by focusing on your photography goals, shooting styles, and budget, you can confidently find the perfect fit for your creative journey.
We’ve put together an in-depth comparison of these models - drawing on hands-on experience, technical knowledge, and real-world testing - to give you a clear understanding of their strengths and weaknesses across all major photography disciplines. Whether you’re a beginner venturing into photography or a professional seeking top-tier gear, this comparison will help you make an informed decision.
First Impressions: Size, Design, and Handling
Before diving into specs and features, the physical feel of a camera is critical. Ergonomics, control layout, and portability all influence your shooting experience.
- Ricoh CX2: Ultra-compact and pocket-friendly at 102x58x29 mm and weighing just 185 grams, the CX2 is designed for casual shooters and travelers who want quick access to a versatile zoom without carrying bulk.
- Sony a1: As a professional-grade mirrorless with an SLR-style body, the a1 is considerably larger (129x97x70 mm) and heavier (737 grams). This size facilitates robust handling, room for extensive controls, and enhanced durability.
The a1’s top plate reveals dedicated dials for shutter speed, ISO, exposure compensation, and drive mode – all essential for fast manual adjustments. The CX2 keeps it simple with minimal buttons and lacks dedicated manual mode controls, reflecting its simpler operation model.
Ergonomics Verdict:
- For portability and casual use: The CX2’s tiny form factor is a clear winner.
- For extensive control and comfortable prolonged use: The a1’s larger body and refined ergonomics offer better grip and quicker access to settings, crucial in demanding environments.
Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Camera
Understanding sensor capabilities is vital since it directly impacts image resolution, dynamic range, noise handling, and depth of field.
Feature | Ricoh CX2 | Sony Alpha a1 |
---|---|---|
Sensor size | 1/2.3" CMOS (6.17x4.55 mm) | Full frame BSI-CMOS (35.9x24 mm) |
Sensor area | 28.07 mm² | 861.60 mm² |
Resolution | 9 Megapixels | 50 Megapixels |
ISO range (native) | 80 - 1600 | 100 - 32,000 |
Max boosted ISO | N/A | 50 - 102,400 |
Anti-alias filter | Yes | Yes |
RAW support | No | Yes |
What This Means in Practice
The a1’s full frame sensor provides vastly superior image quality, especially in challenging lighting. Its larger photosites collect more light, resulting in:
- Better low-light performance with reduced noise
- Greater dynamic range to retain highlight and shadow details
- Higher resolution for large prints and detailed crops
By contrast, the CX2’s small 1/2.3” sensor limits sharpness and performance in low light. Its 9MP resolution is modest by today’s standards, and lack of RAW support restricts post-processing flexibility.
Real-World Testing Insight:
When shooting landscapes or studio portraits, the a1 delivers exceptional color depth, tonal subtleties, and noise control. By contrast, the CX2 produces decent images for casual sharing but reveals noise artifacts quickly beyond ISO 400 and struggles in high-contrast scenes.
Display and Viewfinder: Framing and Reviewing Your Shots
How you compose and check images matters greatly, especially when shooting in bright environments or dynamic situations.
Feature | Ricoh CX2 | Sony Alpha a1 |
---|---|---|
Screen size | 3.0" Fixed, 920k dots | 3.0" Tilting touch, 1.44M dots |
Touchscreen | No | Yes |
Viewfinder | None | 9.4M-dot EVF with 100% coverage |
Screen type | LCD only | High-res OLED EVF + LCD |
- The a1 offers a high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) with full frame coverage and 0.9x magnification, critical for precise framing and shooting in bright daylight.
- The CX2 lacks any viewfinder and relies solely on its relatively low-resolution fixed LCD, which can be difficult to see under harsh sunlight.
- The a1’s tilting touchscreen gives you quick access to focus points and menu navigation, while the CX2 does not feature touch controls.
Conclusion: The a1 dramatically outperforms the CX2 in compositional tools essential for professional workflows.
Focusing and Speed: Capturing Action and Critical Moments
Autofocus (AF) speed, accuracy, and continuous shooting capability are crucial for wildlife, sports, and fast-paced events.
Aspect | Ricoh CX2 | Sony a1 |
---|---|---|
AF System | Contrast detection only | Hybrid AF with 759 phase and contrast points |
Face & Eye AF | No | Yes, human and animal eye AF |
Continuous AF | No | Yes |
Burst Shooting | Not specified, very modest | 30 fps with AF/AE tracking |
The CX2 uses simple contrast-detection AF with no tracking, faces, or eye detection, suitable only for static or slow-moving subjects. Burst rates are not documented but inherently slow due to older hardware.
In contrast, the a1 offers industry-leading autofocus with:
- 759 phase detection points covering nearly the entire frame
- Intelligent face and eye tracking, including animals
- Smooth, reliable autofocus maintenance during continuous shooting
Its 30fps burst shooting is astounding for capturing decisive moments in sports, wildlife, and action photography.
Lens Ecosystem and Zoom Range
Your choice of camera should also factor in available lenses and optical flexibility.
- The CX2 features a fixed 28-300mm equivalent zoom lens (10.7x zoom) with modest aperture of f/3.5-5.6. It covers a versatile telephoto range for casual use but with limited image quality improvement potential since you cannot swap lenses.
- The a1 utilizes Sony’s E-mount system, providing access to over 130 lenses including excellent primes, zooms, macro, and specialty glass suitable for virtually every genre and professional need.
This diversity empowers you to tailor your setup precisely, from ultra-wide landscapes to fast telephoto wildlife shots.
Building for Durability and Professional Use
Feature | Ricoh CX2 | Sony a1 |
---|---|---|
Weather sealing | None | Yes (dust and moisture resistant) |
Build Material | Plastic/compact body | Magnesium alloy |
Weight | 185 g | 737 g |
Battery Life | Modest (specs not listed) | 530 shots per charge |
Storage | Single SD/SDHC slot | Dual SD/CFexpress slots |
The a1’s robust magnesium alloy body and weather sealing enhance reliability in varied conditions - key to professional use. Dual cards provide backup and extended shooting capacity.
The CX2 is a lightweight compact not designed for rugged usage or long sessions without frequent battery changes.
Specialized Photography Uses: What Fits Where?
Let’s break down how these two cameras stack up across popular photography disciplines.
Portrait Photography
- Sony a1:
- Superb color rendition and skin tone accuracy
- Eye detection AF ensures tack-sharp portraits
- Ability to use fast professional lenses for beautiful bokeh and shallow depth of field
- Ricoh CX2:
- Basic autofocus struggles with subject locking
- Modest sensor and fixed lens limit creative control over depth and tonal richness
Landscape Photography
- Sony a1:
- Large full frame sensor delivers expansive dynamic range
- High resolution captures fine detail and textures
- Weather sealing allows shooting in harsh environments
- Ricoh CX2:
- Compact, convenient for travel landscapes
- Limited sensor capabilities reduce shadow/highlight recovery
- Fixed lens restricts ultra-wide or specialized focal lengths
Wildlife & Sports
- Sony a1:
- Rapid 30fps burst with advanced tracking AF
- Telephoto lens compatibility essential for distant subjects
- Ricoh CX2:
- Moderate zoom, slow AF, and no burst make it unsuitable for fast action
Street Photography
- Ricoh CX2:
- Pocketable and discreet form factor ideal for candid shots
- Simple operation for spontaneous moments
- Sony a1:
- Larger and heavier but tilt screen and silent shutter help with discretion
- Superior image quality for fine detail and low-light shots
Macro Photography
- Ricoh CX2:
- Impressive macro capability down to 1cm, usable for close-ups
- Sony a1:
- With appropriate macro lenses, delivers exceptional resolution and detail
Night & Astro Photography
- Sony a1:
- Full frame sensor with high ISO and clean noise profiles
- Long shutter speeds enabled with strong stabilization support
- Ricoh CX2:
- Limited ISO and noise performance constrain night shooting capabilities
Video Capabilities
Feature | Ricoh CX2 | Sony a1 |
---|---|---|
Max resolution | 640x480 (VGA) @ 30fps | 8K (7680x4320) up to 30fps |
Stabilization | Sensor-shift | 5-axis sensor-based |
Microphone input | No | Yes |
Headphone jack | No | Yes |
Video formats | Motion JPEG | XAVC S, HS, H.264, H.265 |
Professional videographers will find the a1’s specs vastly superior, featuring ultra-high resolution 8K capture, advanced codecs, and audio monitoring options. The CX2 offers very basic video good only for casual and nostalgic use.
Connectivity, Workflow, and Storage
Feature | Ricoh CX2 | Sony a1 |
---|---|---|
Wireless | None | Built-in WiFi, Bluetooth |
USB | USB 2.0 | USB-C with fast transfer |
HDMI | None | Yes (full-size) |
Storage | Single SD/SDHC | Dual SD UHS-II + CFexpress |
The a1 integrates modern connectivity options that streamline tethering, remote shooting, and faster image offloading - crucial for professionals in studio and event workflows.
Price and Value: Who Gains What?
- Ricoh CX2: Approx. $341 (as of the last listing)
- Sony Alpha a1: Approx. $6,498
While the price gap is significant, it reflects the difference in technology, target audience, and usability. The CX2 provides excellent value for a highly portable superzoom compact - ideal if you want a straightforward camera for travel, snapshots, and casual macro shots.
The a1 is aimed at professionals and serious enthusiasts demanding state-of-the-art performance, extreme reliability, and versatility across demanding projects.
Summary Table: Head-to-Head Quick Overview
Feature | Ricoh CX2 | Sony Alpha a1 |
---|---|---|
Release Date | 2009 | 2021 |
Sensor Size & Resolution | 1/2.3" 9 MP | Full frame 50 MP |
Autofocus | Contrast detect only | Hybrid AF with Eye/Animal AF |
Continuous Shooting | Not specified (~slow) | 30 fps |
Lens | Fixed 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6 | Interchangeable Sony E-mount |
Weather Sealing | None | Yes |
Video | VGA 640x480 @30fps | 8K 30p, 4K up to 120fps |
Battery Life | Moderate (not specified) | 530 shots per charge |
Size & Weight | Ultra-compact (185 g) | Larger & heavier (737 g) |
Price | Around $340 | Around $6,500 |
Final Recommendations: Which Should You Choose?
Choose the Ricoh CX2 if you:
- Need a compact travel-friendly camera for casual snapshots
- Want a simple, easy-to-operate zoom with decent macro ability
- Have budget constraints under $500
- Don’t require RAW shooting or advanced manual controls
- Value portability over professional image quality
Choose the Sony Alpha a1 if you:
- Are a professional or serious enthusiast demanding top-tier image quality
- Require ultra-fast autofocus for wildlife, sports, or action
- Shoot in challenging lighting and need excellent high ISO performance
- Want access to a vast lens ecosystem and video that supports 8K resolution
- Expect to work in demanding environments requiring weather sealing and durability
- Can invest in a camera body around $6,500 and want a future-proof tool
Example: The a1 locking onto a bird in flight with precision, while the CX2 excels at handheld macro flower shots in good light.
Wrapping Up
Our deep dive shows these cameras meet very different needs. The CX2’s compact form and zoom lens make it a convenient “grab-and-go” for simpler photographic endeavors or travel storytelling. Meanwhile, the Sony a1’s groundbreaking sensor, autofocus, and video specs empower creators to push the boundaries of image quality and professional efficiency.
No matter your level, investing time to test these cameras in person or renting before buying can solidify your choice. Consider your key photography subjects, environments, and workflow demands carefully.
Whichever you choose, both cameras can open doors to creative expression - and with the right lenses and accessories, unlock even more photographic potential.
Ready to explore your next camera? Try hands-on sessions, compare lenses, and think about your long-term goals. Great photos start with the right tool fitted perfectly to your vision.
Ricoh CX2 vs Sony a1 Specifications
Ricoh CX2 | Sony Alpha a1 | |
---|---|---|
General Information | ||
Make | Ricoh | Sony |
Model type | Ricoh CX2 | Sony Alpha a1 |
Category | Small Sensor Superzoom | Pro Mirrorless |
Released | 2009-08-20 | 2021-01-26 |
Body design | Compact | SLR-style mirrorless |
Sensor Information | ||
Powered by | Smooth Imaging Engine IV | - |
Sensor type | CMOS | BSI-CMOS |
Sensor size | 1/2.3" | Full frame |
Sensor measurements | 6.17 x 4.55mm | 35.9 x 24mm |
Sensor surface area | 28.1mm² | 861.6mm² |
Sensor resolution | 9 megapixels | 50 megapixels |
Anti alias filter | ||
Aspect ratio | 1:1, 4:3 and 3:2 | 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 |
Highest Possible resolution | 3456 x 2592 | 8640 x 5760 |
Maximum native ISO | 1600 | 32000 |
Maximum enhanced ISO | - | 102400 |
Min native ISO | 80 | 100 |
RAW pictures | ||
Min enhanced ISO | - | 50 |
Autofocusing | ||
Manual focusing | ||
Autofocus touch | ||
Continuous autofocus | ||
Single autofocus | ||
Autofocus tracking | ||
Autofocus selectice | ||
Autofocus center weighted | ||
Autofocus multi area | ||
Live view autofocus | ||
Face detection focus | ||
Contract detection focus | ||
Phase detection focus | ||
Total focus points | - | 759 |
Lens | ||
Lens mount type | fixed lens | Sony E |
Lens zoom range | 28-300mm (10.7x) | - |
Largest aperture | f/3.5-5.6 | - |
Macro focusing range | 1cm | - |
Number of lenses | - | 133 |
Focal length multiplier | 5.8 | 1 |
Screen | ||
Range of screen | Fixed Type | Tilting |
Screen diagonal | 3 inches | 3 inches |
Screen resolution | 920 thousand dot | 1,440 thousand dot |
Selfie friendly | ||
Liveview | ||
Touch function | ||
Viewfinder Information | ||
Viewfinder | None | Electronic |
Viewfinder resolution | - | 9,437 thousand dot |
Viewfinder coverage | - | 100% |
Viewfinder magnification | - | 0.9x |
Features | ||
Minimum shutter speed | 8 secs | 30 secs |
Fastest shutter speed | 1/2000 secs | 1/8000 secs |
Fastest silent shutter speed | - | 1/32000 secs |
Continuous shutter speed | - | 30.0fps |
Shutter priority | ||
Aperture priority | ||
Manual exposure | ||
Exposure compensation | - | Yes |
Change white balance | ||
Image stabilization | ||
Integrated flash | ||
Flash distance | 3.00 m (ISO 400) | no built-in flash |
Flash options | Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye, Slow Sync | Flash off, Autoflash, Fill-flash, Slow Sync., Rear Sync., Red-eye reduction, Wireless, Hi-speed sync |
External flash | ||
AE bracketing | ||
White balance bracketing | ||
Fastest flash sync | - | 1/400 secs |
Exposure | ||
Multisegment exposure | ||
Average exposure | ||
Spot exposure | ||
Partial exposure | ||
AF area exposure | ||
Center weighted exposure | ||
Video features | ||
Supported video resolutions | 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 240 (30 fps) | 7680x4320 (30p, 25p, 23.98) |
Maximum video resolution | 640x480 | 7680x4320 |
Video file format | Motion JPEG | XAVC S, XAVC HS, H.264, H.265 |
Microphone input | ||
Headphone input | ||
Connectivity | ||
Wireless | None | Built-In |
Bluetooth | ||
NFC | ||
HDMI | ||
USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) | Yes |
GPS | None | None |
Physical | ||
Environmental seal | ||
Water proofing | ||
Dust proofing | ||
Shock proofing | ||
Crush proofing | ||
Freeze proofing | ||
Weight | 185 grams (0.41 pounds) | 737 grams (1.62 pounds) |
Physical dimensions | 102 x 58 x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") | 129 x 97 x 70mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") |
DXO scores | ||
DXO Overall rating | not tested | not tested |
DXO Color Depth rating | not tested | not tested |
DXO Dynamic range rating | not tested | not tested |
DXO Low light rating | not tested | not tested |
Other | ||
Battery life | - | 530 images |
Battery format | - | Battery Pack |
Battery ID | DB-70 | NP-FZ100 |
Self timer | Yes (2, 10 or Custom) | Yes |
Time lapse recording | ||
Storage media | SD/SDHC card, Internal | Dual SD/CFexpress Type A slots (UHS-II supported) |
Storage slots | Single | 2 |
Launch cost | $341 | $6,498 |