Ricoh CX3 vs Sony A9

Let's look closer at the Ricoh CX3 versus Sony A9, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by brands Ricoh and Sony. There is a sizeable difference between the sensor resolutions of the CX3 (10MP) and A9 (24MP) and the CX3 (1/2.3") and A9 (Full frame) offer different sensor sizing.

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The CX3 was revealed 7 years before the A9 and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Ricoh CX3 being a Compact camera and the Sony A9 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the CX3 scores vs the A9 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Ricoh CX3 and Sony Alpha A9. The full galleries are viewable at Ricoh CX3 Gallery and Sony A9 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to lug around your camera frequently, you will have to consider its weight and measurements. The Ricoh CX3 enjoys exterior measurements of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs) whilst the Sony A9 has proportions of 127mm x 96mm x 63mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 2.5") with a weight of 673 grams (1.48 lbs).

See the Ricoh CX3 versus Sony A9 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are using at the time. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the CX3 compared to the A9.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the CX3 and A9 is 92 and 65 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be difficult to imagine the contrast between sensor measurements just by looking at technical specs. The graphic below should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the CX3 and A9.

As you have seen, both cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The CX3 with its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field trickier and the Sony A9 will give more detail because of its extra 14MP. Higher resolution will help you crop photographs way more aggressively. The older CX3 is going to be behind with regard to sensor innovation.