Samsung CL5 vs Sony RX1

Its time to look a bit more in depth at the Samsung CL5 and Sony RX1, former being a Ultracompact while the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by brands Samsung and Sony. There exists a considerable gap among the image resolutions of the CL5 (9MP) and RX1 (24MP) and the CL5 (1/2.5") and RX1 (Full frame) possess totally different sensor sizing.

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

The CL5 was unveiled 5 years prior to the RX1 and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Samsung CL5 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony RX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go in to a in-depth comparison, below is a short view of how the CL5 matches up against the RX1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Samsung CL5 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1. The full galleries are provided at Samsung CL5 Gallery & Sony RX1 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry your camera regularly, you'll have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Samsung CL5 offers physical dimensions of 93mm x 60mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.7") with a weight of 141 grams (0.31 lbs) whilst the Sony RX1 has measurements of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") and a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

Check the Samsung CL5 and Sony RX1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have attached at that time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the CL5 and the RX1.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the CL5 and RX1 is 95 and 79 respectively.

Sometimes, it's difficult to see the gap in sensor sizing just by looking through specifications. The photograph underneath may provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the CL5 and RX1.

To sum up, both of those cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The CL5 having a smaller sensor will make getting shallow DOF trickier and the Sony RX1 will provide you with more detail having an extra 15 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also help you crop pictures a little more aggressively. The older CL5 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.