Ricoh CX5 vs Sony A77

Here, we are reviewing the Ricoh CX5 vs Sony A77, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Advanced DSLR by manufacturers Ricoh and Sony. There is a sizeable difference between the image resolutions of the CX5 (10MP) and A77 (24MP) and the CX5 (1/2.3") and A77 (APS-C) have totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The CX5 was launched 3 months before the A77 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Ricoh CX5 being a Compact camera and the Sony A77 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving into a complete comparison, here is a short introduction of how the CX5 matches up vs the A77 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Ricoh CX5 and Sony SLT-A77. The complete galleries are available at Ricoh CX5 Gallery and Sony A77 Gallery.

If you're looking to lug around your camera often, you will want to take into account its weight and measurements. The Ricoh CX5 provides 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 A77 has proportions of 143mm x 104mm x 81mm (5.6" x 4.1" x 3.2") having a weight of 732 grams (1.61 lbs).

Compare the Ricoh CX5 vs Sony A77 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are employing at that time. Below is a front view scale comparison of the CX5 versus the A77.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the CX5 and A77 is 92 and 59 respectively.

Usually, it is difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor measurements merely by reading a spec sheet. The photograph below will help provide you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the CX5 and A77.

As you can see, both of the cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The CX5 featuring a tinier sensor will make getting shallower DOF tougher and the Sony A77 will offer extra detail utilizing its extra 14MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop pics way more aggressively.