Ricoh CX3 vs Sony S980

Below is a comprehensive review of the Ricoh CX3 and Sony S980, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Ricoh and Sony. The image resolution of the CX3 (10MP) and the S980 (12MP) is relatively close and both cameras boast the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The CX3 was introduced 17 months later than the S980 which makes them a generation apart from one another. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving straight to a in depth comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the CX3 scores vs the S980 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Ricoh CX3 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The whole galleries are provided at Ricoh CX3 Gallery and Sony S980 Gallery.

If you are intending to lug around your camera, you'll have to consider its weight and volume. The Ricoh CX3 features outside 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) while the Sony S980 has sizing of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

See the Ricoh CX3 and Sony S980 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have chosen at the time. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the CX3 compared to the S980.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the CX3 and S980 is 92 and 94 respectively.

Typically, it can be tough to imagine the contrast in sensor measurements purely by looking through specifications. The photograph here will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the CX3 and S980.

To sum up, each of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different resolution. You should count on the Sony S980 to provide you with more detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will help you crop photographs more aggressively. The younger CX3 provides an advantage with regard to sensor tech.