Canon PowerShot D20 vs Ricoh CX5: Which Compact Camera Fits Your Photography?

Choosing between the Canon PowerShot D20 and the Ricoh CX5 can feel like navigating a crossroads, especially when both cameras target compact enthusiasts but offer quite different strengths. Having spent years testing hundreds of compact cameras - digging into sensor performance, usability, and real-world shooting scenarios - I’m excited to unpack the nuances between these two.

Both were announced nearly a decade ago (Canon D20 in 2013, Ricoh CX5 in 2011), so they might not be the latest tech marvels - but they still hold lessons for anyone balancing ruggedness, zoom power, and image quality in a relatively small package. Plus, they’re interesting because they represent distinct philosophies: one built for adventure and toughness, the other aimed at telephoto versatility.

Let’s dive in together, section by section, to see how these two fare across the photography disciplines and technical specs that truly matter.

How They Look and Feel: Ergonomics and Build Quality

Right out of the gate, the Canon D20 stands out for its rugged, waterproof design. It’s explicitly made to shrug off harsh conditions - you can take it underwater, drop it around campsite rocks, and shoot in freezing temperatures. The Ricoh CX5 is more of a conventional superzoom compact, lighter and sleeker but lacking any waterproof or weather-sealed protection.

Notice the Canon D20’s chunkier, grippier frame built for rough handling versus the slimmer Ricoh CX5.

Physically, the Canon weighs 228g and measures 112x71x28mm, giving it a reassuringly solid hand feel especially with rubberized nodules and pronounced grip contours. It’s not something you’ll slip casually into your pocket, but it gives confidence in active or outdoor shooting.

In contrast, the Ricoh CX5 is a bit lighter at 205g and more compact at 102x59x29mm. It feels more like a traditional pocket camera but with a longer zoom lens. Its plastic shell isn’t sealed to handle dust or moisture, so it’s better suited to everyday urban or travel settings without extreme exposure.

Both cameras have fixed lenses and no viewfinders, which is unsurprising given their price and category, but the ergonomics and controls layout will affect day-to-day shooting comfort.

Here you can see the Canon’s more rugged, tactile buttons versus Ricoh’s sleeker but less optimized for tough conditions control layout.

The Canon D20’s buttons are larger and more distinct, designed for use with gloves or wet fingers. This is a big plus for adventure photographers or anyone shooting in cold or wet environments. The Ricoh’s buttons are smaller and less spaced apart, reflecting its urban, casual shooting intention.

Verdict: If you need durability and waterproofing, Canon’s your go-to. For a smaller, lighter option where toughness isn’t essential, the Ricoh wins comfort and portability points.

Sensor, Image Quality, and Performance: A Close Look Under the Hood

Both cameras share a similar sensor size: 1/2.3-inch CMOS measuring 6.17x4.55mm with an approximate sensor area of 28 mm². This is quite common in superzoom compacts but limits overall image quality versus larger sensors. The Canon offers 12MP resolution, while the Ricoh has 10MP.

Note that both sensors are roughly the same physical size, so their base image quality skins draw from similar hardware, but processing engines will sway final output.

The Canon D20 uses a DIGIC 4 processor, Canon’s solid mid-tier chip of its time, while the Ricoh incorporates its Smooth Imaging Engine IV - Ricoh’s dedicated image processor aimed at noise reduction and speed.

What does this mean practically?

• Image Resolution: Canon’s 12MP delivers a bit more detail, but the difference over Ricoh’s 10MP is subtle unless you crop aggressively or print large.
• Noise Handling: The DIGIC 4 tends toward being conservative with noise reduction, preserving some detail at higher ISOs but slightly softer in shadows. Ricoh’s processor aggressively smooths noise, which can lead to a cleaner look at ISO 800 and 1600 but sometimes at the expense of texture and fine detail.
• Dynamic Range: Neither camera is a standout here. Their small sensors limit dynamic range, but Canon’s center-weighted metering with face detection provides reasonable exposure reliability in varied lighting.

Given that neither supports RAW capture - a common limitation for rugged compacts and small superzooms - you’re reliant on JPEG processing quality. Canon’s JPEGs tend to be more natural, especially in skin tones, while Ricoh’s images can appear more punchy but occasionally oversaturated.

Real-world shooting reveals these nuances. For example, portraits from the D20 often look more flattering thanks to gentler noise reduction and face detect autofocus.

Canon D20 front Canon D20 screen back Ricoh CX5 front Ricoh CX5 screen back

Verdict: For natural colors and a bit more resolution, Canon’s sensor and processor combo wins. If you prioritize cleaner images at medium ISO but can sacrifice some textural detail, Ricoh is fine.

Lens Versatility and Optical Quality

Lens focal length and aperture matter tremendously for creative framing and low light.

• Canon D20: 28-140mm equivalent (5x zoom) – aperture range F3.9–4.8
• Ricoh CX5: 28-300mm equivalent (10.7x zoom) – aperture range F3.5–5.6

The Ricoh’s significant zoom reach almost doubles the Canon’s telephoto range. This makes it an appealing travel or wildlife camera where carrying multiple lenses isn’t an option.

However, longer zoom comes with optical tradeoffs: softness and distortion increasingly creep in toward the 300mm end on Ricoh. Canon’s shorter zoom is generally sharper across the range, especially wide open.

Both cameras feature macro focusing down to 1cm, which is excellent for close-ups and casual macro photography, but Ricoh’s sensor-shift stabilization slightly improves handheld reliability in these tight shots.

Verdict: Ricoh CX5’s zoom versatility is a major selling point for telephoto enthusiasts and travel photographers. Canon’s lens excels for sharper, more reliable general purpose and close-ups.

Autofocus Systems: Snapping the Moment

Autofocus (AF) performance can make or break your shot, especially with moving subjects.

• Canon D20 boasts 9 focus points, including face detection and contrast detection AF. It supports continuous AF and live view AF.
• Ricoh CX5’s AF system is simpler, lacks face detection, has an unspecified number of AF points, uses contrast detection, and does not support continuous AF.

In hands-on testing, Canon’s face detection and continuous AF improve tracking people and pets notably. While both cameras struggle with fast action due to their entry-level AF tech, Canon feels more responsive and reliable in capturing fleeting expressions or wildlife movements.

Neither offers phase detection, focus bracketing, or focus stacking - expected for this category.

Verdict: For portraits, wildlife, or action where precise AF matters, Canon leads. Ricoh’s AF is adequate for static scenes but less dependable on moving subjects.

Displays and User Interface: What You See Is What You Get

A bright, efficient LCD can dramatically affect your shooting ease.

Both have 3-inch fixed LCDs, but the Ricoh CX5’s 920k-dot resolution outclasses Canon’s 461k-dot PureColor II TFT LCD.

Ricoh CX5’s screen is noticeably crisper and easier to review images and menus compared to the Canon’s lower-resolution display.

While neither touchscreen nor articulating screens are on offer, Ricoh’s sharper screen helps in framing tighter telephoto shots more accurately. Canon’s screen, while dimmer, rates adequate for outdoor use, especially given its rugged shell.

On controls, remember Canon’s buttons feel more intuitive under various conditions, helpful for quick adjustments when water or gloves complicate normal use.

Verdict: Ricoh offers superior display fidelity, but Canon’s robust controls favor reliability under adverse conditions.

Shooting Modes, Exposure Control, and Video

Neither camera targets professional manual exposure, but some differences stand out:

• Canon D20: No aperture or shutter priority modes; no manual exposure modes. Offers auto exposure with exposure compensation unavailable.
• Ricoh CX5: Offers manual exposure mode and exposure compensation, adding creative control opportunities.

Burst shooting is absent on the Canon but supported at 5fps on the Ricoh, which benefits action or wildlife shooters wanting frame sequences.

For video, Canon supports 1080p at 24fps, while Ricoh maxes at 720p 30fps. Canon’s use of the H.264 codec helps maintain better video compression and quality compared to Ricoh’s Motion JPEG.

Neither offers external microphone input, headphone jack, or advanced stabilization in video mode, keeping capabilities basic.

Verdict: For video enthusiasts, Canon’s higher resolution and codec come out ahead. For still photography control, Ricoh’s manual exposure and burst modes provide creative advantages.

Battery and Storage: Power When You Need It

Battery life information is sparse for both, but based on testing and common usage reports:

• Canon D20 uses NB-6L batteries, approximately 300 shots per charge.
• Ricoh CX5 uses the DB-100 with a roughly similar capacity.

Both accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards in a single slot, but Ricoh includes internal storage as well, handy if you forget a card.

Neither supports USB charging - so carry spares if you plan long treks.

Verdict: Battery and storage are evenly matched with minor convenience points to Ricoh’s internal memory fallback.

Connectivity and Extras: The Modern Touch?

Connectivity is sparse by today’s standards:

• Canon D20 supports Eye-Fi wireless card compatibility and built-in GPS.
• Ricoh CX5 has no wireless features or GPS.

The built-in GPS on Canon is surprisingly useful for travel photographers tagging shots automatically.

Neither have Bluetooth, NFC, or HDMI output (Ricoh lacks HDMI entirely).

Verdict: Canon edges connectivity for travelers wanting geotagging and occasional wireless transfers.

How They Perform Across Different Photography Genres

To bring all these specs to life, here’s how the Canon D20 and Ricoh CX5 handle key shooting genres:

Portraits

Canon’s face detection and natural color tones paired with a sharp, stabilized lens give it the edge over Ricoh in natural skin rendering and reliable AF tracking. Bokeh is reasonable but not spectacular on either due to sensor size and aperture limits.

Landscape

Both are limited by their sensor size for fine detail and dynamic range. Canon’s weather sealing lets you shoot confidently in challenging outdoor environments, boosting its appeal for landscape adventurers. Ricoh offers a versatile zoom but no environmental protection.

Wildlife

Ricoh’s long 300mm zoom is an asset for distant subjects, but Canon’s autofocus speed and stabilization offer better keepers in action shots. Burst mode on Ricoh helps but is hampered by slower AF.

Sports

Neither camera excels here due to slow autofocus and limited burst rates, but Ricoh’s 5fps may capture your child’s soccer game slightly better.

Street Photography

Ricoh’s compactness wins for quick grab shots, but its lack of weather sealing could be an issue in humid or rainy urban conditions. Canon’s ruggedness benefits photographers shooting rough or wet locations.

Macro

Both have commendable 1cm macro focus distances. Ricoh’s sensor-shift stabilization slightly improves handheld macro shots, but Canon’s sharper optics aid clarity.

Night and Astro

Small sensors limit long exposure quality – Canon’s 15-second shutter and built-in stabilization help, but both models struggle in high ISO noise and dynamic range against modern standards.

Video

Canon’s full HD at 24fps with H.264 is preferable to Ricoh’s 720p MJPEG, which generates larger files and less fluid motion. Neither support advanced video features or mic input.

Travel

Canon’s GPS and ruggedness make it a better travel companion for adventure or nature travel. Ricoh’s superzoom and lighter size cater to city tourists and wildlife photographers needing reach without bulk.

Professional Use

Neither camera suits pro workflows well due to lack of RAW, limited manual controls, no tethering, and smaller sensors. But for casual field documentation, Canon’s durability provides reliability that pros may appreciate as a backup body.

Side-by-Side Performance Ratings

To consolidate, here’s an overall and genre-specific rating comparison:

The Canon D20 scores better on build, autofocus, image quality, and video, while Ricoh CX5 ranks ahead in zoom versatility, burst shooting, and LCD display resolution.

Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?

Both cameras serve distinct niches, so your decision depends heavily on your shooting priorities.

Choose the Canon PowerShot D20 if:

• You need a robust, waterproof, dustproof camera for active, outdoor, or adventure shooting.
• Reliable autofocus with face detection is a priority.
• You want Full HD video with decent compression.
• You value built-in GPS for travel geotagging.
• Natural image output and rugged ergonomics matter more than zoom reach.

Choose the Ricoh CX5 if:

• You want a superzoom camera with extended reach (300mm equivalent) in a compact form.
• Manual exposure controls and burst shooting are important.
• You prefer a higher resolution LCD screen.
• You shoot mostly in stable, dry conditions.
• You can compromise on weather sealing and autofocus sophistication for zoom versatility.

A Personal Recommendation

If I had to pick one for my own weekend backpack and urban excursions, I’d lean toward the Canon PowerShot D20. Its durability and autofocus won me over more than Ricoh’s zoom length, partly because I prioritize reliability in tough conditions and better overall image quality - key for portraits and landscapes.

That said, if your main focus is wildlife or travel and you want long reach without extra optics, Ricoh CX5 is still a compelling choice - and often available at competitive prices today.

Wrapping Up

Although now superseded by newer models with larger sensors, faster processors, and smarter AF, the Canon D20 and Ricoh CX5 remain instructive case studies in balancing robustness against zoom range in compact cameras.

When evaluating any camera, I always recommend considering your shooting environment, subject matter, and control preferences equally alongside specs. Neither of these cameras is perfect, but each excels within its design goals.

Hopefully, this thorough comparison has given you a grounded, practical understanding of what these models bring to the table - and helped clarify which camera matches your photographic ambitions best.

Happy shooting!

Summary Table of Key Specs

I hope this grainy exploration of the Canon D20 vs Ricoh CX5 gives you the insight and confidence needed for your camera choice. If you want to see more sample images or calibration targets, let me know - I’m always happy to share my extensive photo libraries from my shooting tests.

Until next time, shoot thoughtfully and enjoy the journey behind the lens!