Ricoh WG-4 vs Sony HX99

Here is a in depth overview of the Ricoh WG-4 vs Sony HX99, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Ricoh and Sony. The image resolution of the WG-4 (16MP) and the HX99 (18MP) is relatively close but the WG-4 (1/2.3") and HX99 (1/2.3-inch) come with totally different sensor dimensions.

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The WG-4 was revealed 5 years earlier than the HX99 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting through a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the WG-4 grades versus the HX99 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Ricoh WG-4 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX99. The full galleries are available at Ricoh WG-4 Gallery and Sony HX99 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry your camera frequently, you're going to have to think about its weight and proportions. The Ricoh WG-4 offers outside dimensions of 124mm x 64mm x 33mm (4.9" x 2.5" x 1.3") along with a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs) while the Sony HX99 has measurements of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 242 grams (0.53 lbs).

Look at the Ricoh WG-4 vs Sony HX99 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are using during that time. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the WG-4 versus the HX99.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the WG-4 and HX99 is 90 and 91 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to see the difference in sensor sizing just by researching specs. The photograph here will give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the WG-4 and HX99.

All in all, both of those cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The WG-4 using its bigger sensor will make getting shallow DOF easier and the Sony HX99 will result in extra detail because of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop pictures somewhat more aggressively. The older WG-4 will be behind with regard to sensor technology.