Ricoh WG-4 vs Sony NEX-5R

Here is a in depth analysis of the Ricoh WG-4 vs Sony NEX-5R, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Ricoh and Sony. The sensor resolution of the WG-4 (16MP) and the NEX-5R (16MP) is pretty comparable but the WG-4 (1/2.3") and NEX-5R (APS-C) come with totally different sensor sizing.

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The WG-4 was introduced 18 months later than the NEX-5R which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Ricoh WG-4 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-5R being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting through a in-depth comparison, below is a short view of how the WG-4 matches up vs the NEX-5R when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Ricoh WG-4 and Sony Alpha NEX-5R. The whole galleries are available at Ricoh WG-4 Gallery and Sony NEX-5R Gallery.

When you are going to carry your camera, you will have to factor its weight and size. The Ricoh WG-4 offers physical dimensions of 124mm x 64mm x 33mm (4.9" x 2.5" x 1.3") with a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs) and the Sony NEX-5R has specifications of 111mm x 59mm x 39mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") with a weight of 276 grams (0.61 lbs).

Look at the Ricoh WG-4 vs Sony NEX-5R in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at the time. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the WG-4 against the NEX-5R.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the WG-4 and NEX-5R is 90 and 89 respectively.

Usually, it is difficult to envision the contrast in sensor sizing only by seeing specifications. The graphic here will help provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the WG-4 and NEX-5R.

To sum up, the two cameras offer the same exact MP albeit not the same sensor sizing. The WG-4 uses the smaller sensor which is going to make getting shallower depth of field more difficult. The newer WG-4 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.