Ricoh WG-4 GPS vs Sony A380

Here, we will be contrasting the Ricoh WG-4 GPS and Sony A380, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Ricoh and Sony. The sensor resolution of the WG-4 GPS (16MP) and the A380 (14MP) is relatively close but the WG-4 GPS (1/2.3") and A380 (APS-C) offer totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The WG-4 GPS was introduced 4 years later than the A380 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Ricoh WG-4 GPS being a Compact camera and the Sony A380 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before going straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief summation of how the WG-4 GPS scores vs the A380 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Ricoh WG-4 GPS and Sony Alpha DSLR-A380. The whole galleries are viewable at Ricoh WG-4 GPS Gallery and Sony A380 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera often, you should take into account its weight and size. The Ricoh WG-4 GPS has got external dimensions of 124mm x 64mm x 33mm (4.9" x 2.5" x 1.3") and a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs) while the Sony A380 has specifications of 128mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 2.8") having a weight of 519 grams (1.14 lbs).

Examine the Ricoh WG-4 GPS and Sony A380 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are using at that time. Below is a front view dimensions comparison of the WG-4 GPS and the A380.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the WG-4 GPS and A380 is 90 and 68 respectively.

Generally, its tough to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing merely by looking through specs. The photograph below will help provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the WG-4 GPS and A380.

All in all, both of those cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The WG-4 GPS using its smaller sensor will make getting shallower DOF harder and the Ricoh WG-4 GPS will provide you with more detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop pictures way more aggressively. The newer WG-4 GPS is going to have an edge in sensor innovation.