Yes, the Bernolin is quite a bit better sounding than any plastic recorder that I have tried, including the Ecodear. It’s not really a fair fight! 😉
Concerning the size and hole positions, if you download that picture, you can see a little better (this website has downsized it some on the screen). The Bernolin is larger and fatter throughout (except the head, which is actually somewhat smaller). If you look closely at the right hand holes, you’ll see how they are closer together on the Bernolin, especially the first 3. And you see that the fatter foot joint RAISES the position of the pinky holes (they’re not so flat in line with the other holes), so it really is easier to reach.