Ricoh WG-4 GPS vs Zeiss ZX1

In this write-up, we are looking at the Ricoh WG-4 GPS vs Zeiss ZX1, one being a Waterproof and the other is a Large Sensor Compact by competitors Ricoh and Zeiss. There is a crucial difference between the sensor resolutions of the WG-4 GPS (16MP) and ZX1 (37MP) and the WG-4 GPS (1/2.3") and ZX1 (Full frame) feature totally different sensor size.

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The WG-4 GPS was launched 5 years prior to the ZX1 and that is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Ricoh WG-4 GPS being a Compact camera and the Zeiss ZX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before going straight into a full comparison, below is a quick summary of how the WG-4 GPS matches up vs the ZX1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Ricoh WG-4 GPS and Zeiss ZX1. The complete galleries are available at Ricoh WG-4 GPS Gallery and Zeiss ZX1 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera frequently, you will need to think about its weight and measurements. The Ricoh WG-4 GPS features outside dimensions of 124mm x 64mm x 33mm (4.9" x 2.5" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs) while the Zeiss ZX1 has proportions of 142mm x 93mm x 46mm (5.6" x 3.7" x 1.8") and a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Contrast the Ricoh WG-4 GPS vs Zeiss ZX1 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are employing at the time. Underneath is the front view scale comparison of the WG-4 GPS vs the ZX1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the WG-4 GPS and ZX1 is 90 and 67 respectively.

Oftentimes, its tough to see the contrast between sensor sizing only by going over specs. The visual below should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the WG-4 GPS and ZX1.

All in all, the 2 cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The WG-4 GPS featuring a tinier sensor will make getting shallower DOF tougher and the Zeiss ZX1 will offer greater detail utilizing its extra 21MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop photos a little more aggressively. The older WG-4 GPS is going to be behind in sensor innovation.