Ricoh CX6 vs Sony NEX-5

Here, we will be reviewing the Ricoh CX6 versus Sony NEX-5, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Ricoh and Sony. There is a sizable difference among the resolutions of the CX6 (10MP) and NEX-5 (14MP) and the CX6 (1/2.3") and NEX-5 (APS-C) posses different sensor sizes.

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The CX6 was introduced 18 months later than the NEX-5 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Ricoh CX6 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go right into a thorough comparison, here is a short view of how the CX6 matches up versus the NEX-5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Ricoh CX6 & Sony Alpha NEX-5. The whole galleries are viewable at Ricoh CX6 Gallery & Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry your camera often, you will have to consider its weight and volume. The Ricoh CX6 has got outer measurements of 104mm x 59mm x 29mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 201 grams (0.44 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-5 has sizing of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") with a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Examine the Ricoh CX6 versus Sony NEX-5 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you have chosen during that time. The following is a front view sizing comparison of the CX6 and the NEX-5.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the CX6 and NEX-5 is 92 and 89 respectively.

Usually, it's hard to imagine the difference in sensor sizing simply by going through a spec sheet. The photograph below should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the CX6 and NEX-5.

As you can see, both of the cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The CX6 having a smaller sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field tougher and the Sony NEX-5 will provide greater detail using its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop pictures way more aggressively. The newer CX6 should have an edge in sensor innovation.