Ricoh WG-5 GPS vs Sony NEX-C3

The following is a complete review of the Ricoh WG-5 GPS and Sony NEX-C3, one is a Waterproof and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Ricoh and Sony. The image resolution of the WG-5 GPS (16MP) and the NEX-C3 (16MP) is relatively comparable but the WG-5 GPS (1/2.3") and NEX-C3 (APS-C) boast different sensor sizes.

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The WG-5 GPS was brought out 3 years after the NEX-C3 which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Ricoh WG-5 GPS being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-C3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going right into a in depth comparison, here is a simple overview of how the WG-5 GPS matches up against the NEX-C3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Ricoh WG-5 GPS and Sony Alpha NEX-C3. The entire galleries are available at Ricoh WG-5 GPS Gallery and Sony NEX-C3 Gallery.

For those who are planning to travel with your camera frequently, you will need to think about its weight and measurements. The Ricoh WG-5 GPS features exterior measurements of 125mm x 65mm x 32mm (4.9" x 2.6" x 1.3") along with a weight of 236 grams (0.52 lbs) and the Sony NEX-C3 has proportions of 110mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 225 grams (0.50 lbs).

Take a look at the Ricoh WG-5 GPS and Sony NEX-C3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are working with at that time. Underneath is a front view sizing comparison of the WG-5 GPS versus the NEX-C3.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the WG-5 GPS and NEX-C3 is 90 and 91 respectively.

Sometimes, it is hard to imagine the contrast in sensor dimensions just by going through a spec sheet. The picture here will help give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the WG-5 GPS and NEX-C3.

As you can see, both the cameras have the same megapixel count albeit different sensor dimensions. The WG-5 GPS uses the smaller sensor which is going to make achieving shallow DOF tougher. The more modern WG-5 GPS should have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.