Diving Deep: Canon PowerShot D20 vs Ricoh WG-6 Waterproof Camera Showdown

When it comes to rugged, waterproof compact cameras, the Canon PowerShot D20 and Ricoh WG-6 stand out as viable contenders - especially for those who want a tough little shooter without breaking the bank. Both models target outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, and casual waterproof photography buffs, but they hail from different eras: Canon’s D20 debuted in 2013, while Ricoh's WG-6 arrived five years later in 2018 with seemingly modern upgrades.

Having spent extensive time testing rugged compacts over the years - shooting underwater, hiking rocky trails, and freezing in cold weather - I’m confident I can steer you right between these two. Let’s plunge into a hands-on, no-nonsense comparison of everything that matters - from sensor and image quality to ergonomics, autofocus, specialized features, and who should consider which.

Bulk, Build & Handling: Toughness Meets Usability

Both the Canon D20 and Ricoh WG-6 are pocket-friendly waterproof compacts, designed to shrug off water, dust, shock, and sub-zero temps. Canon’s D20 weighs slightly less at 228 grams compared to the WG-6’s 246 grams. Though a minor difference, that’s noticeable over hours trekking with gear.

Dimensions-wise, the D20 is a tad shorter and thicker (112x71x28 mm) against Ricoh’s slightly taller and thicker frame (118x66x33 mm). Neither feels clunky, but the WG-6’s deeper grip texture gives it a more secure hold - essential when your fingers are wet or gloved.

Environmental Sealing: Both cameras ship with robust weatherproofing - waterproof to roughly 10m (WG-6 even a bit beyond), dustproof, shockproof (the WG-6 packs crushproof protection too), and freezeproof. Ricoh clearly targeted harsher environments here, making it a better choice for rugged expeditions where gear failure is not an option.

Controls & Ergonomics: Neither sports an articulated or touchscreen, both relying on fairly standard button layouts and d-pads. The D20’s buttons are a bit smaller and squishier, whereas the WG-6’s offer firmer feedback - no clubs for thumbs here.

In practical hands-on use, the WG-6’s ergonomics and grip win for me - better for quick shots and underwater ops. The D20 feels a bit toy-like in comparison but is still intuitive enough for casual users.

Image Sensor & Processing Power: The Heart of the Image

Underneath their rugged exteriors lie very different imaging engines.

While both share the same sensor size (common in compact cameras), the WG-6 sports a much higher 20MP resolution versus the D20’s 12MP. Ricoh also ups the max native ISO to 6400, doubling Canon’s ISO ceiling of 3200.

The WG-6 utilizes BSI (Backside Illuminated) CMOS technology, which typically delivers better low-light efficiency than the older conventional CMOS sensor in the D20. In real terms, this translates to:

• Improved night and indoor shooting with less noise on the WG-6.
• Higher resolution images from the Ricoh that allow for greater cropping latitude or larger prints.

That said, no RAW format support in either means photographers needing maximum post-processing flexibility may find both limiting. JPG files are the main output, which can hinder severe exposure or color correction - but not uncommon for rugged compacts.

In my long-term field testing, the WG-6’s images are noticeably cleaner at ISO 800 and above, offering sharper detail and better dynamic range retention. Not to mention the ability to seize a 4K UHD video stream (a huge leap over the Canon’s 1080p max).

Autofocus and Performance Under Fire

Autofocus in compact cameras is often a make-or-break point, especially when shooting wildlife, sports, or fast street scenes.

The WG-6 has the edge here, standing out with continuous AF tracking - a major advantage when shooting moving subjects that the D20 lacks. Though neither camera carries phase detection for lightning-fast lock-on, Ricoh’s advanced contrast detection algorithms and tracking help keep sharp focus a little more reliably.

In practical terms, wildlife and sports shooters will find the WG-6’s autofocus system more forgiving on spontaneous action, while the D20 is better suited for slower-paced, more deliberate shooting.

Lens & Optical Image Stabilization: Flexibility vs. Consistency

Both cameras feature a fixed zoom lens equivalent to 28-140 mm (5x zoom) with macro focusing down to just 1 cm, great for getting close in tough environments.

Canon’s optical image stabilization (OIS) is typically praised for providing smoother compensation for handshake across zoom range and often outperforms digital stabilization, which can introduce slight cropping or artifacts.

Ricoh’s WG-6 sticks to digital image stabilization - good, but rarely as effective as true optics, particularly noticeable at telephoto or slower shutter speeds. However, the WG-6’s slightly faster wide-angle aperture (f/3.5 vs. f/3.9 on the D20) lets in a bit more light to maintain shutter speeds.

Both lenses offer useful macro modes, though I observed the WG-6 focusing quicker and more consistently in close-up scenarios (likely due to improved AF algorithms).

LCD Screens and User Interface: Seeing What Matters

Screen quality can often be neglected but makes a world of difference shooting in bright outdoor conditions.

Ricoh’s higher-resolution screen is by far the better viewing window - it’s crisper and easier to see in harsh sunlight, invaluable for both framing and reviewing shots on the fly.

Canon’s PureColor II delivers decent clarity but looks dimmer and less sharp in direct light. Since neither camera offers touchscreen or tilting functionality, menu navigation relies on buttons that, as mentioned earlier, feel more tactile on the WG-6.

Video Capabilities: When Moving Pictures Count

If video is on your list, there are some clear distinctions here:

The WG-6 shines with 4K UHD video - something not possible on the D20. This is a game-changer for vloggers and casual filmmakers who want sharp, detailed footage.

That said, Canon’s optical stabilization coupled with its video mode still produces impressively smooth clips for basic needs, and its clever slow-motion frame capture is a unique bonus for creative effects.

Absence of microphone or headphone jacks on both is a limitation; these cameras are not designed for professional-level sound recording.

Battery Life & Storage: How Long and How Much?

For everyday usability, how long you can shoot and where you save photos matters a lot.

Interestingly, Ricoh’s WG-6 includes internal storage in addition to SD cards, handy if you ever run short on card space or need quick transfers without swapping cards.

Battery life for the D20 is unspecified, but in practice, expect about 200-250 shots per charge depending on usage patterns. WG-6 rated for 340 is a clear advantage for all-day outings.

Wireless connectivity on both utilizes proprietary Wi-Fi SD cards (Eye-Fi for Canon, FlashAir for Ricoh) instead of built-in Wi-Fi, which feels dated but functional with the right accessories.

Specialized Photography Uses: Who Shines Where?

Let’s drill down into specific styles of photography and see how the two fare in real-world scenarios.

Portrait Photography

• Canon D20: Thanks to its face detection AF and natural color science, portraits yield agreeable skin tones and decent background blur at telephoto end. The optical stabilization helps reduce handshake in tighter framing.
• Ricoh WG-6: Higher resolution and faster aperture aid detail and sharpness, but digital stabilization can introduce minor blur in low light. Tracking AF aids eye-locked subjects but lacks animal-eye detection, important if you like pet portraits.

Winner: I lean toward Canon’s more natural rendering and steadier telephoto handling for casual portraits but the WG-6’s detail wins for intricate shots.

Landscape Photography

• Canon D20: Lower resolution and older sensor restrict dynamic range and fine detail, plus the LCD is harder to read outdoors.
• Ricoh WG-6: Higher resolution (20 MP) and improved sensor tech bring more dynamic range, better shadow recovery, and sharper images. 4K video adds versatility for landscape filmmakers.

Weather sealing is comparable in both; the WG-6 holds a slight edge with crushproof build.

Winner: Ricoh WG-6 beats the D20 hands down for landscapes.

Wildlife & Sports Photography

• Canon D20: Lacks AF tracking and sports limited burst modes, making it tough to capture fast action.
• Ricoh WG-6: Continuous AF tracking offers a solid chance of nailing quick subjects, plus superior ISO performance helps in dim conditions.

Neither camera can match dedicated DSLRs or mirrorless for serious sports, but WG-6 is more capable for casual wildlife shots.

Winner: Ricoh WG-6 for AF and ISO capability.

Street Photography

• Canon D20: Smaller body, lighter weight, and relatively discreet appearance help it blend into urban environments.
• Ricoh WG-6: Larger grip and thicker body make it less inconspicuous, but sharper viewfinder screen and faster AF help grab decisive moments.

Winner: Canon D20 edges out for portability and low profile.

Macro Photography

Both cameras allow focusing extremely close (~1cm), but WG-6 demonstrates faster, more reliable AF in my trials.

Winner: Ricoh WG-6.

Night & Astro Photography

BSI sensor and higher ISO in WG-6 enable cleaner images at night, while Canon’s older CMOS struggles with noise and dynamic range. Neither supports advanced long exposures or RAW critically needed for astro.

Winner: Ricoh WG-6.

Travel Photography

The Canon D20’s lighter frame and competent image quality make it good for casual trips where you want waterproof without extra bulk. The Ricoh WG-6’s improved sensor, bigger battery, and 4K video suit travelers seeking more versatility despite extra weight.

Winner: Depends on priorities - Canon for minimalists, Ricoh for content creators needing extras.

Professional Work

Neither camera supports RAW output or advanced video/audio features professionals demand. They serve more as rugged backup options below professional tier.

Canon D20 front Canon D20 screen back Ricoh WG 6 front Ricoh WG 6 screen back

Price and Value: Spending Your Hard-Earned Cash Wisely

At face value, the Ricoh WG-6 offers better specs at lower or comparable prices today. Its ruggedness, sensor prowess, and video capabilities provide excellent bang for your buck, especially if you value image quality and versatility.

Canon’s D20, despite being older and technically outclassed, is often found at bargain basement prices and can be great for “throw-it-in-the-bag” casual users who want no-fuss waterproof.

Final Takeaway: Which Compact Waterproof Camera Should You Choose?

Canon PowerShot D20 Pros:

• Lighter and smaller form factor
• Optical image stabilization for better shake reduction
• Natural color science for skin tones
• Generally user-friendly for casual snapshots
• Budget-friendly (especially used)

Canon PowerShot D20 Cons:

• Lower resolution sensor and dynamic range
• No RAW support or 4K video
• Weak autofocus for action shooting
• Dimmer LCD screen
• Older processor technology

Ricoh WG-6 Pros:

• Higher resolution (20MP) BSI-CMOS sensor delivers sharper images
• 4K UHD video recording capability
• Continuous autofocus tracking and better close-up AF
• Stronger weather sealing including crushproof
• Larger battery life and internal storage options
• Sharper high-res LCD screen

Ricoh WG-6 Cons:

• Slightly bulkier and heavier
• Digital image stabilization can be less effective than optical
• No RAW format or external audio ports
• No touchscreen or articulating screen

So, whom do I recommend each camera for?

• If you’re a budget-conscious adventurer or casual snapshot taker wanting a reliable, easy-to-carry waterproof camera, the Canon D20 offers solid value for its price and simplicity.
• If you’re a serious outdoor content creator, travel photographer, or someone wanting sharper images and better video, the Ricoh WG-6 is the clear choice with its advanced sensor, robust build, and versatile features - even if it costs a bit more and carries more weight.

Bonus Tip: If low-light or fast action capture are priorities, lean heavily toward the WG-6. For lightweight pocketability and straightforward use, the D20 remains relevant despite its older roots.

Both cameras serve their niche well, but packing them side-by-side on my last kayaking trip, the Ricoh WG-6 consistently delivered tactical advantages worth its extra grams and bucks - especially when every shot counts.

I hope this deep dive helps you make an informed decision for your next waterproof compact. Remember, the best camera in the world is the one you have with you - so choose the rugged companion that fits your style and budget. Happy shooting!