Ricoh CX3 vs Sony QX100

On this page, we will be reviewing the Ricoh CX3 and Sony QX100, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Lens-style by competitors Ricoh and Sony. There is a sizable difference between the image resolutions of the CX3 (10MP) and QX100 (20MP) and the CX3 (1/2.3") and QX100 (1") provide totally different sensor sizes.

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The CX3 was launched 4 years prior to the QX100 which is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Ricoh CX3 being a Compact camera and the Sony QX100 being a Lens-style camera.

Before we go right into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick overview of how the CX3 scores against the QX100 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Ricoh CX3 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-QX100. The complete galleries are viewable at Ricoh CX3 Gallery & Sony QX100 Gallery.

When you are going to carry around your camera often, you will have to factor in its weight and volume. The Ricoh CX3 comes with physical measurements of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs) whilst the Sony QX100 has sizing of 63mm x 63mm x 56mm (2.5" x 2.5" x 2.2") accompanied by a weight of 179 grams (0.39 lbs).

Examine the Ricoh CX3 and Sony QX100 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you choose at the time. The following is a front view physical size comparison of the CX3 compared to the QX100.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the CX3 and QX100 is 92 and 92 respectively.

Often, it is very difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor sizes purely by going over specs. The pic below may provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the CX3 and QX100.

As you can plainly see, both cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The CX3 because of its tinier sensor will make achieving shallow DOF harder and the Sony QX100 will deliver extra detail utilizing its extra 10MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures more aggressively. The more aged CX3 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.