Ricoh CX5 vs Sony HX1

In this article, we are evaluating the Ricoh CX5 and Sony HX1, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Ricoh and Sony. The image resolution of the CX5 (10MP) and the HX1 (9MP) is fairly close but the CX5 (1/2.3") and HX1 (1/2.4") feature totally different sensor sizes.

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The CX5 was brought out 2 years after the HX1 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Ricoh CX5 being a Compact camera and the Sony HX1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before getting in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the CX5 grades versus the HX1 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Ricoh CX5 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1. The entire galleries are provided at Ricoh CX5 Gallery & Sony HX1 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry around your camera regularly, you'll have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Ricoh CX5 features outer measurements of 102mm x 59mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") along with a weight of 205 grams (0.45 lbs) whilst the Sony HX1 has dimensions of 115mm x 83mm x 92mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 3.6") along with a weight of 544 grams (1.20 lbs).

Take a look at the Ricoh CX5 and Sony HX1 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Following is the front view scale comparison of the CX5 compared to the HX1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the CX5 and HX1 is 92 and 67 respectively.

Normally, it is very difficult to see the gap in sensor sizes only by looking through a spec sheet. The pic underneath may offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the CX5 and HX1.

As you can see, the two cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The CX5 due to its larger sensor will make getting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Ricoh CX5 will result in extra detail having its extra 1 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos far more aggressively. The fresher CX5 is going to have an advantage in sensor technology.