Ricoh GR II vs Sony A55

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Ricoh GR II and Sony A55, one is a Large Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Ricoh and Sony. The sensor resolution of the GR II (16MP) and the A55 (16MP) is very similar and they use the same exact sensor size (APS-C).

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The GR II was launched 4 years after the A55 which is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Ricoh GR II being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Sony A55 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a short introduction of how the GR II scores vs the A55 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Ricoh GR II and Sony SLT-A55. The complete galleries are viewable at Ricoh GR II Gallery and Sony A55 Gallery.

If you're planning to travel with your camera often, you will have to think about its weight and volume. The Ricoh GR II provides exterior dimensions of 117mm x 63mm x 35mm (4.6" x 2.5" x 1.4") having a weight of 251 grams (0.55 lbs) whilst the Sony A55 has sizing of 124mm x 92mm x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3") with a weight of 500 grams (1.10 lbs).

Analyze the Ricoh GR II and Sony A55 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you select at that time. Below is the front view sizing comparison of the GR II compared to the A55.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the GR II and A55 is 89 and 67 respectively.

Often, it is difficult to imagine the difference between sensor dimensions simply by going over a spec sheet. The pic underneath should offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the GR II and A55.

As you can see, each of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the exact same megapixels so you should expect similar quality of files though you may want to factor the release date of the products into consideration. The more recent GR II provides a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.