Ricoh WG-30W vs Sony RX100

In this write-up, we will be comparing the Ricoh WG-30W versus Sony RX100, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by manufacturers Ricoh and Sony. The sensor resolution of the WG-30W (16MP) and the RX100 (20MP) is pretty well matched but the WG-30W (1/2.3") and RX100 (1") come with totally different sensor dimensions.

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The WG-30W was introduced 2 years later than the RX100 and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Ricoh WG-30W being a Compact camera and the Sony RX100 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before getting through a full comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the WG-30W grades versus the RX100 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Ricoh WG-30W and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100. The whole galleries are available at Ricoh WG-30W Gallery and Sony RX100 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera, you will have to factor in its weight and size. The Ricoh WG-30W comes with outer measurements of 123mm x 62mm x 30mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 1.2") along with a weight of 194 grams (0.43 lbs) while the Sony RX100 has specifications of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") with a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs).

Examine the Ricoh WG-30W versus Sony RX100 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Here is the front view measurement comparison of the WG-30W and the RX100.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the WG-30W and RX100 is 91 and 91 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to envision the gap between sensor sizing only by checking a spec sheet. The photograph underneath might offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the WG-30W and RX100.

As you can see, each of the cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The WG-30W using its tinier sensor will make achieving shallow DOF more difficult and the Sony RX100 will give extra detail using its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop photographs far more aggressively. The newer WG-30W will have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.