Ricoh GR II vs Sony NEX-5N

On this page, we will be reviewing the Ricoh GR II versus Sony NEX-5N, former is a Large Sensor Compact while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Ricoh and Sony. The image resolution of the GR II (16MP) and the NEX-5N (16MP) is pretty similar and both cameras posses the same sensor size (APS-C).

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The GR II was revealed 3 years after the NEX-5N which is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Ricoh GR II being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5N being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going into a thorough comparison, here is a short summary of how the GR II matches up against the NEX-5N when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Ricoh GR II & Sony Alpha NEX-5N. The full galleries are provided at Ricoh GR II Gallery & Sony NEX-5N Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry around your camera regularly, you're going to have to consider its weight and measurements. The Ricoh GR II features external dimensions of 117mm x 63mm x 35mm (4.6" x 2.5" x 1.4") along with a weight of 251 grams (0.55 lbs) and the Sony NEX-5N has proportions of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") having a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Take a look at the Ricoh GR II versus Sony NEX-5N in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you select at that moment. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the GR II against the NEX-5N.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the GR II and NEX-5N is 89 and 89 respectively.

Generally, it is hard to imagine the gap between sensor sizes merely by reviewing technical specs. The image below will offer you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the GR II and NEX-5N.

As you can tell, the two cameras have the same sensor dimensions and the same exact resolution and you can expect similar quality of files although you should factor the age of the products into consideration. The newer GR II provides an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.