Ricoh CX4 vs Sony S980

Its time to look more in depth at the Ricoh CX4 versus Sony S980, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by companies Ricoh and Sony. The sensor resolution of the CX4 (10MP) and the S980 (12MP) is relatively close and both cameras have the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The CX4 was unveiled 19 months after the S980 which makes them a generation away from one another. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the CX4 grades versus the S980 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Ricoh CX4 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The full galleries are available at Ricoh CX4 Gallery and Sony S980 Gallery.

If you are going to travel with your camera often, you have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Ricoh CX4 enjoys exterior dimensions of 102mm x 59mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") along with a weight of 205 grams (0.45 lbs) while the Sony S980 has dimensions of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Examine the Ricoh CX4 versus Sony S980 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you choose at that moment. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the CX4 compared to the S980.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the CX4 and S980 is 92 and 94 respectively.

Normally, it is very difficult to picture the difference in sensor dimensions simply by viewing specifications. The picture below may give you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the CX4 and S980.

To sum up, both of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different resolution. You should count on the Sony S980 to render more detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots more aggressively. The fresher CX4 should have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.