Ricoh WG-50 vs Sony a1

In this write-up, we will be analyzing the Ricoh WG-50 versus Sony a1, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by rivals Ricoh and Sony. There is a huge difference between the image resolutions of the WG-50 (16MP) and a1 (50MP) and the WG-50 (1/2.3") and a1 (Full frame) possess different sensor measurements.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The WG-50 was brought out 4 years earlier than the a1 and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Ricoh WG-50 being a Compact camera and the Sony a1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting in to a complete comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the WG-50 grades versus the a1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Ricoh WG-50 and Sony Alpha a1. The entire galleries are provided at Ricoh WG-50 Gallery and Sony a1 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera frequently, you should consider its weight and size. The Ricoh WG-50 features outside measurements of 123mm x 62mm x 30mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 1.2") with a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs) whilst the Sony a1 has specifications of 129mm x 97mm x 70mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") along with a weight of 737 grams (1.62 lbs).

Check the Ricoh WG-50 versus Sony a1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you select at the time. Here is the front view dimensions comparison of the WG-50 vs the a1.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the WG-50 and a1 is 91 and 61 respectively.

In many cases, it can be tough to imagine the contrast between sensor sizing purely by going over technical specs. The photograph here should offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the WG-50 and a1.

As you can tell, each of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The WG-50 due to its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallow depth of field harder and the Sony a1 will offer greater detail having its extra 34 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The older WG-50 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor tech.