Ricoh GR vs Sony NEX-5

In this article, we are comparing the Ricoh GR versus Sony NEX-5, former being a Large Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Ricoh and Sony. The sensor resolution of the GR (16MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is very close and they use the same exact sensor sizing (APS-C).

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The GR was released 2 years later than the NEX-5 and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Ricoh GR being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going straight into a complete comparison, below is a quick overview of how the GR grades vs the NEX-5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Ricoh GR & Sony Alpha NEX-5. The complete galleries are viewable at Ricoh GR Gallery & Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to lug around your camera, you are going to need to take into account its weight and measurements. The Ricoh GR features outside measurements of 117mm x 61mm x 35mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.4") having a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs) and the Sony NEX-5 has proportions of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") with a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Check the Ricoh GR versus Sony NEX-5 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you select at that time. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the GR versus the NEX-5.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the GR and NEX-5 is 90 and 89 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to picture the contrast in sensor measurements merely by looking through technical specs. The photograph below may offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the GR and NEX-5.

As you have seen, both of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but different MP. You can expect to see the Ricoh GR to render extra detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will help you crop photos a little more aggressively. The fresher GR should have a benefit in sensor technology.