CameraReview

Ricoh GR III vs Sony ZV-1 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

✓ WINNER
Ricoh GR III
Ricoh
Ricoh GR III
Compact · 24 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
87
SCORE
$759
best of 7 retailers
Best Price →
Sony ZV-1
Sony
Sony ZV-1
Compact · 20 MP · 1" · 4K video
65
SCORE
$517
best of 3 retailers
Best Price →
General
Brand RicohSony
Model GR IIIZV-1
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20182020
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
25/09/201826/05/2020
Camera type CompactCompact
Camera size 109 x 62 x 33 mm105 x 60 x 44 mm
Camera weight 257 g294 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24 MP05020 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40005472 x 3648
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
Sensor size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
23.5 x 15.613.2 x 8.8
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-C1"
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
4 fps04524 fps045
Lens mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
FixedFixed
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
GR Engine 6Bionz X
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020012530200
Max ISO
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
1024003003280000128003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
1003020012530200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
1024003003280000256003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
400080032000200080032000
Autofocus points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
103003150300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
ElectronicNone
Viewfinder dots N/AN/A
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HD4K
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
1920 x 10803840 x 2160
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
60 fps120 fps
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MPEG-4, MOVMPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen type TFT LCDLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
103700011500015000009216001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible), Internal StorageSD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual memory card slots
Battery type DB-110NP-BX1
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
200 shots1505000260 shots1505000
USB charging

The Ricoh GR III edges out the Sony ZV-1 with a score of 66/100 compared to 65/100. Both cameras are compact models, with the Ricoh GR III announced in 2018 and the Sony ZV-1 in 2020. They share similarities in size, with the Ricoh GR III measuring 109 x 62 x 33mm and the Sony ZV-1 at 105 x 60 x 44mm.

The Ricoh GR III excels with its lighter weight of 257g, making it more portable than the Sony ZV-1, which weighs 294g. On the other hand, the Sony ZV-1 has a lower launch price of $800, compared to the Ricoh GR III’s $899 price tag, making it more affordable.

Each camera has its advantages, with the Ricoh GR III offering greater portability and the Sony ZV-1 being more budget-friendly. Ultimately, the choice depends on the user’s priorities and preferences.

Ricoh GR III vs Sony ZV-1 Video Performance

The Sony ZV-1 outperforms the Ricoh GR III in video capabilities with a video score of 91/100 compared to the Ricoh GR III’s 70/100. Both cameras share some common features, such as time-lapse functionality built in. However, the Sony ZV-1 offers superior video specifications, making it the better choice for video enthusiasts.

The Sony ZV-1 boasts a maximum video resolution of 4K (3840 x 2160), whereas the Ricoh GR III’s maximum video resolution is Full HD (1920 x 1080). This means that the Sony ZV-1 can capture videos with higher detail and clarity than the Ricoh GR III. In addition, the Sony ZV-1 has a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, which is double the Ricoh GR III’s 60fps. This allows the Sony ZV-1 to produce smoother slow-motion footage and provide more flexibility in post-production.

Although the Ricoh GR III has a lower video score, it still offers quality Full HD video recording and time-lapse functionality. This might be sufficient for casual videographers or those who primarily focus on photography but occasionally dabble in video.

Considering the video specifications of both cameras, the Sony ZV-1 clearly outshines the Ricoh GR III in terms of video performance. With 4K resolution and a higher frame rate, the Sony ZV-1 caters to more serious videographers or content creators seeking higher quality footage. On the other hand, the Ricoh GR III may suffice for those who prioritize photography and only require basic video capabilities.

Ricoh GR III vs Sony ZV-1 Features and Benefits

The Ricoh GR III wins the feature comparison with a score of 70/100, while the Sony ZV-1 scores 68/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capability, WiFi, and Bluetooth connectivity. However, there are noteworthy differences that set these two cameras apart.

The Ricoh GR III is superior in screen resolution with 1,037,000 dots compared to the Sony ZV-1’s 921,600 dots. This higher resolution provides a sharper and clearer image on the camera’s screen, making it easier to review and compose shots.

On the other hand, the Sony ZV-1 has a flip screen, which the Ricoh GR III lacks. The flip screen is a valuable feature for vloggers and content creators, as it allows them to see themselves while recording or taking selfies. This advantage makes the Sony ZV-1 more suitable for users who prioritize this functionality.

Neither camera has GPS, which might be a drawback for users who wish to geotag their images. However, both cameras offer WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, making it convenient to transfer images and remotely control the camera via a smartphone.

Comparing these two cameras, the Ricoh GR III’s higher screen resolution makes it a better choice for photographers who prioritize image clarity on the camera’s screen. The Sony ZV-1, with its flip screen, is more suitable for vloggers and content creators who need to see themselves while recording. Ultimately, the right camera depends on the user’s specific needs and preferences.

Ricoh GR III vs Sony ZV-1 Storage and Battery

The Sony ZV-1 wins in the storage and battery category with a score of 29/100, while the Ricoh GR III scores 27/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and support USB charging. They accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, with the ZV-1 also compatible with Memory Stick Pro Duo and Pro-HG Duo cards.

The ZV-1 outperforms the GR III in battery life, providing 260 shots per charge compared to the GR III’s 200 shots. This advantage makes the ZV-1 more suitable for extended shooting sessions. The GR III, however, does offer internal storage, which could be beneficial in situations where an additional memory card is unavailable.

Despite the ZV-1’s slight advantage in battery life and memory card compatibility, both cameras have limitations in their storage and battery capabilities. Users must consider these factors when deciding on the ideal camera for their needs.

Ricoh GR III vs Sony ZV-1 – Our Verdict

Ricoh GR III vs Sony ZV-1 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Ricoh GR III or the Sony ZV-1: