Ricoh WG-20 vs Sony a1

Lets look more closely at the Ricoh WG-20 versus Sony a1, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by brands Ricoh and Sony. There is a sizeable difference between the resolutions of the WG-20 (14MP) and a1 (50MP) and the WG-20 (1/2.3") and a1 (Full frame) possess totally different sensor measurements.

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The WG-20 was revealed 8 years prior to the a1 and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras come with different body type with the Ricoh WG-20 being a Compact camera and the Sony a1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting straight into a full comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the WG-20 scores versus the a1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Ricoh WG-20 and Sony Alpha a1. The full galleries are viewable at Ricoh WG-20 Gallery and Sony a1 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera frequently, you should factor in its weight and dimensions. The Ricoh WG-20 offers external measurements of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 164 grams (0.36 lbs) while the Sony a1 has dimensions of 129mm x 97mm x 70mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 737 grams (1.62 lbs).

Compare the Ricoh WG-20 versus Sony a1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are using at that moment. Underneath is the front view over all size comparison of the WG-20 compared to the a1.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the WG-20 and a1 is 93 and 61 respectively.

In many cases, it's difficult to see the difference between sensor sizing only by reading technical specs. The photograph below may offer you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the WG-20 and a1.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The WG-20 with its tinier sensor will make getting shallow depth of field trickier and the Sony a1 will deliver greater detail because of its extra 36 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop photographs somewhat more aggressively. The older WG-20 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.