Ricoh CX1 has a
9.0MP 1/2.3-inch (6.17 x 4.55 mm ) sized CMOS sensor and features Smooth Imaging Engine IV processor. On the other hand, Olympus SP-820UZ has a
14.0MP 1/2.3-inch (6.17 x 4.55 mm ) sized CMOS sensor .
Olympus SP-820UZ's sensor provides 5MP more than Ricoh CX1's sensor, which gives a significant advantage in real life. You can print your images larger or crop more freely.
On the other hand, please keep in mind that Max sensor resolution is not the only determinant of resolving power. Factors such as the optical elements, low pass filter, pixel size and sensor technology also affects the final resolution of the captured image.
Below you can see the CX1 and SP-820UZ sensor size comparison.
Sensor Size and Resolution Comparison image of Ricoh CX1 and Olympus SP-820UZ Cameras
Ricoh CX1 and Olympus SP-820UZ have the same sensor sizes so they will provide same level of control over the depth of field when used with same focal length and aperture. On the other hand, since Ricoh CX1 has 53% larger pixel area compared to Olympus SP-820UZ, it has potential to collect more light on pixel level hence have less noise in low light / High ISO images.
Sensor size sets the circle of confusion, so it drives how much depth of field each
of these bodies gives you at a given aperture. You can calculate it exactly for the
Ricoh CX1
or the
Olympus SP-820UZ ,
including hyperfocal distance.
