Ricoh GR Digital IV vs Sony RX1

Below, we will be reviewing the Ricoh GR Digital IV versus Sony RX1, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Ricoh and Sony. There exists a noticeable gap between the resolutions of the GR Digital IV (10MP) and RX1 (24MP) and the GR Digital IV (1/1.7") and RX1 (Full frame) use totally different sensor measurements.

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The GR Digital IV was launched 17 months earlier than the RX1 which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Ricoh GR Digital IV being a Compact camera and the Sony RX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go in to a in depth comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the GR Digital IV scores versus the RX1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Ricoh GR Digital IV & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1. The complete galleries are viewable at Ricoh GR Digital IV Gallery & Sony RX1 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera, you will have to factor its weight and size. The Ricoh GR Digital IV enjoys external measurements of 109mm x 59mm x 33mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.3") with a weight of 190 grams (0.42 lbs) while the Sony RX1 has specifications of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") having a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

Take a look at the Ricoh GR Digital IV versus Sony RX1 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you have attached at that moment. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the GR Digital IV versus the RX1.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the GR Digital IV and RX1 is 92 and 79 respectively.

Normally, it's tough to envision the gap between sensor sizing merely by reviewing specs. The graphic here may provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the GR Digital IV and RX1.

As you can plainly see, the two cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The GR Digital IV due to its tinier sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field more difficult and the Sony RX1 will offer you greater detail utilizing its extra 14 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop pictures much more aggressively. The older GR Digital IV is going to be behind in sensor technology.