Ricoh GR vs Ricoh WG-50

Its time to look a bit more in depth at the Ricoh GR vs Ricoh WG-50, one being a Large Sensor Compact and the latter is a Waterproof and they are both sold by Ricoh. The resolution of the GR (16MP) and the WG-50 (16MP) is relatively comparable but the GR (APS-C) and WG-50 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor dimensions.

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The GR was unveiled 5 years before the WG-50 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Ricoh GR being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Ricoh WG-50 being a Compact camera.

Before getting into a thorough comparison, here is a short summary of how the GR grades versus the WG-50 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Ricoh GR and Ricoh WG-50. The full galleries are available at Ricoh GR Gallery and Ricoh WG-50 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera often, you'll need to consider its weight and proportions. The Ricoh GR has got exterior dimensions of 117mm x 61mm x 35mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.4") having a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs) whilst the Ricoh WG-50 has measurements of 123mm x 62mm x 30mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 1.2") with a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs).

Contrast the Ricoh GR vs Ricoh WG-50 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you select at that time. Here is a front view measurements comparison of the GR against the WG-50.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the GR and WG-50 is 90 and 91 respectively.

Quite often, it can be hard to envision the gap in sensor sizing just by seeing technical specs. The photograph below might give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the GR and WG-50.

As you have seen, both of these cameras have the same megapixels albeit not the same sensor sizing. The GR has got the bigger sensor which should make obtaining shallow DOF less difficult. The older GR will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.