Ricoh WG-30W vs Sony A290

Below is a extended review of the Ricoh WG-30W and Sony A290, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by companies Ricoh and Sony. The image resolution of the WG-30W (16MP) and the A290 (14MP) is relatively close but the WG-30W (1/2.3") and A290 (APS-C) have totally different sensor size.

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The WG-30W was launched 4 years later than the A290 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Ricoh WG-30W being a Compact camera and the Sony A290 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting into a thorough comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the WG-30W matches up vs the A290 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Ricoh WG-30W and Sony Alpha DSLR-A290. The complete galleries are available at Ricoh WG-30W Gallery and Sony A290 Gallery.

For those who are planning to lug around your camera regularly, you are going to need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Ricoh WG-30W enjoys physical dimensions of 123mm x 62mm x 30mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 1.2") and a weight of 194 grams (0.43 lbs) while the Sony A290 has dimensions of 128mm x 97mm x 86mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.4") accompanied by a weight of 549 grams (1.21 lbs).

Compare the Ricoh WG-30W and Sony A290 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are employing during that time. Below is a front view overall size comparison of the WG-30W against the A290.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the WG-30W and A290 is 91 and 66 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be tough to envision the contrast in sensor measurements merely by looking through a spec sheet. The photograph below may provide you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the WG-30W and A290.

Clearly, both cameras have different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The WG-30W due to its smaller sensor will make shooting bokeh harder and the Ricoh WG-30W will provide you with extra detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The more modern WG-30W will have a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.