Ricoh WG-50 vs Sony NEX-3

The following is a extended assessment of the Ricoh WG-50 versus Sony NEX-3, one is a Waterproof and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Ricoh and Sony. The image resolution of the WG-50 (16MP) and the NEX-3 (14MP) is pretty similar but the WG-50 (1/2.3") and NEX-3 (APS-C) possess totally different sensor dimensions.

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The WG-50 was introduced 7 years after the NEX-3 which is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Ricoh WG-50 being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a simple overview of how the WG-50 scores vs the NEX-3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Ricoh WG-50 and Sony Alpha NEX-3. The whole galleries are available at Ricoh WG-50 Gallery and Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

For those who are intending to travel with your camera, you will need to consider its weight and measurements. The Ricoh WG-50 features outer measurements of 123mm x 62mm x 30mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 1.2") along with a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs) while the Sony NEX-3 has proportions of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

Take a look at the Ricoh WG-50 versus Sony NEX-3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are using at the time. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the WG-50 and the NEX-3.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the WG-50 and NEX-3 is 91 and 89 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very tough to visualise the gap between sensor dimensions just by reviewing technical specs. The pic underneath might provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the WG-50 and NEX-3.

As you have seen, each of the cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The WG-50 having a tinier sensor will make achieving shallower DOF harder and the Ricoh WG-50 will deliver extra detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop shots far more aggressively. The more recent WG-50 will have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.