Ricoh GR vs Sony WX5

Let's look more closely at the Ricoh GR and Sony WX5, one being a Large Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Ricoh and Sony. There is a big difference between the resolutions of the GR (16MP) and WX5 (12MP) and the GR (APS-C) and WX5 (1/2.3") posses totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The GR was introduced 2 years later than the WX5 and that is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Ricoh GR being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Sony WX5 being a Compact camera.

Before diving into a full comparison, here is a concise summary of how the GR scores against the WX5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Ricoh GR and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX5. The whole galleries are viewable at Ricoh GR Gallery and Sony WX5 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Ricoh GR comes with outside dimensions of 117mm x 61mm x 35mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.4") with a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs) whilst the Sony WX5 has dimensions of 92mm x 52mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.0" x 0.9") along with a weight of 146 grams (0.32 lbs).

Check out the Ricoh GR and Sony WX5 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you select during that time. Following is a front view dimensions comparison of the GR compared to the WX5.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the GR and WX5 is 90 and 95 respectively.

Usually, it can be difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizing only by reading through technical specs. The visual underneath may give you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the GR and WX5.

As you have seen, both of these cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The GR with its bigger sensor will make getting bokeh less difficult and the Ricoh GR will give you greater detail using its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop pictures more aggressively. The fresher GR is going to have an edge with regard to sensor tech.