Canon PowerShot SX620 HS vs Ricoh CX5: The Ultimate Small Sensor Superzoom Showdown

As a photography gear enthusiast who’s spent the better part of two decades testing everything from high-end full frames to pocket-sized compacts, I find these two small sensor superzoom cameras – the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS and the Ricoh CX5 – an intriguing pairing to compare. They come from an era when compactness met zoom ambition but without breaking the bank or weighing down your travel bag.

Both represent a particular niche: small sensor compacts with substantial zoom reach, designed for those who want “all-in-one” convenience but aren’t chasing the pixel-peeper holy grail of image quality. Today, we’ll dig deep into their performance, build, and practical use for a broad range of photographic styles, and perhaps answer that eternal question: which deserves a spot in your camera kit?

Physical Size and Handling – Compact Convenience Meets Ergonomics

Looking first at their physical profiles, presented above in the size comparison image, the Canon SX620 HS is a touch smaller at 97x57x28 mm and lighter at 182 g. The Ricoh CX5 measures 102x59x29 mm and tips the scale at 205 g. Not a huge difference on paper, but when you’re shooting street or travel photography, those few extra grams and millimeters can feel like a noticeable burden after hours on foot.

The SX620 HS’s sleek body exudes a more modern vibe, primarily thanks to a more streamlined barrel and a subtly contoured grip. The CX5, with its slightly more blocky build and additional bulk at the front lens ring, feels a bit more substantial in hand, which some might appreciate for stability, but others might find less pocket-friendly.

Build quality for both is typical of their class and price point. Neither is weather-sealed or ruggedized, so you’ll want to be cautious shooting outdoors in sketchy weather. Their plastic construction doesn’t scream professional robustness, but it does make them lightweight and less intimidating for casual shooters.

Design and Control Layout – Where Simplicity Meets Usability

Glancing down from above (see the top view comparison), neither camera attempts to overwhelm with dials and buttons. The SX620 is minimalistic: a mode dial essentially limited to auto modes (no shutter or aperture priority here), a prominent zoom toggle, and a fairly clicky shutter button. The Ricoh CX5 offers slightly more manual flexibility, weirdly tucked away though – shutter priority exposure mode exists, and exposure compensation is dialable, which you won't find on the Canon.

Both cameras lack an electronic viewfinder (EVF), which is a shame for bright daylight shooting, forcing reliance on the LCD screen. Control feedback is decent on both, but neither is destined to win ergonomic awards.

Turn the cameras around and you’re greeted by similar 3-inch fixed LCDs: Canon’s boasts 922k-dot resolution, while Ricoh’s offers 920k - essentially a tie in visible sharpness and fidelity. Neither is touch-enabled, which today feels a bit archaic but was standard fare upon their release.

The Canon’s screen appears slightly better optimized for outdoor visibility. In bright sunlight, the Ricoh’s screen can lose contrast, demanding a shade or careful angling to compose reliably.

Sensor and Image Quality – The Heart of the Matter

I always start my image quality assessment by looking under the hood at sensor tech and image specs (check the sensor size comparison above). Both cameras use a 1/2.3" sensor measuring 6.17x4.55 mm, about 28 mm² surface area. This is a sensor size standard for “superzoom” compacts, with pros and cons. Great for packing optics into tight spaces, but a natural limitation on noise, dynamic range, and shallow depth of field - your portrait bokeh dreams start here with healthy skepticism.

So sensor size isn’t a differentiator between the two, but resolution is: the Canon shoots 20MP (5184x3888), while the Ricoh tops out at 10MP (3648x2736). At first glance, that might tip the scales toward Canon, promising extra detail – but only if the sensor and lens optics can appropriately resolve it without excessive noise.

In practice, I found the Canon’s DIGIC 4+ processor paired with its BSI-CMOS sensor produces surprisingly sharp images with decent color accuracy for the class, especially at base ISO (80 native). However, noise starts creeping in conspicuously as ISO climbs beyond 800. The Ricoh, with its older Smooth Imaging Engine IV and CMOS sensor, delivers images that are slightly softer at all ISOs due to lower resolution but tends to hold noise in check a bit better at high ISO in JPEGs, possibly through stronger in-camera noise smoothing.

Neither supports RAW, and for image quality purists, that’s a bummer - post-processing flexibility will be limited to JPEG tweaks only. As such, both cameras lean toward casual shooters rather than serious photographers wanting full creative control.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed – Timing Is Everything

Autofocus is key for capturing fleeting moments, and here their differences stand out.

• The Canon SX620 HS uses contrast-detection AF with 9 focus points and supports face detection with continuous AF and tracking. It feels competent and relatively responsive for a compact, especially in good light. However, low-light AF hunting is noticeable, and fast-moving subjects can pose a challenge.

• The Ricoh CX5’s AF system is also contrast-based but lacks face detection and continuous AF, offering only single-shot focusing with multi-area and center-weighted options. This gives Canon an edge in autofocus versatility and accuracy for dynamic scenes.

Continuous shooting is another test - Canon manages just 2.5 frames per second, a slow crawl really, while Ricoh claims 5 fps. Yet Ricoh’s lack of continuous AF limits practical burst utility, as focus remains locked on the initial frame.

Zoom and Lens Performance – How Far Can We Really Go?

Both cameras boast “superzoom” capabilities, but the numbers differ significantly.

• Canon’s 25-625 mm equivalent (25x zoom) is beastly - perfect for wildlife glimpses on vacation or distant details during travel. However, the aperture narrows dramatically to f/6.6 at telephoto, so expect shaky results without stabilization or decent light.

• Ricoh’s 28-300 mm (10.7x zoom) covers a more modest range but with a slightly brighter f/3.5-5.6 aperture envelope, helpful in low light or for slightly better shallow depth effects.

Lens sharpness in the center is respectable on Canon at wide and mid focal lengths, but image quality drops noticeably at the extreme zoom positions, with softness and chromatic aberration creeping in. The Ricoh lens is impressively consistent, albeit softer overall, with less aggressive distortion across its shorter zoom.

Both cameras include optical image stabilization (OIS), Canon’s being lens-based and Ricoh’s sensor-shift. In real-world use, both systems offer a tangible extension of usable shutter speeds, especially helpful when handholding at full zoom. In tricky light, the Ricoh’s sensor-shift felt slightly more effective, probably due to the less aggressive zoom stretch.

Macro and Close-up – Tiny Details Matter

Both cameras support macro focusing from just 1 cm, an unusually close distance for superzooms. In my tests, the Ricoh CX5 delivers surprisingly good close-up results with commendable sharpness and natural background blur given the sensor size. The Canon, while capable, often struggles to lock focus precisely on macro subjects at the closest depths, especially in dimmer lighting due to its reliance on contrast AF.

Everyday Use: Street, Travel, and General Versatility

Consider portability, discreteness, and battery life for everyday carry.

• Canon’s lighter weight and slightly smaller body make it better suited for street photography, where you sometimes want to be less obtrusive - or simply carry less gear over long days. Its silent shutter speed maxes out at 1/2000s, enough for bright daylight shooting, and while it has no EVF, the LCD is usually adequate.

• Ricoh CX5’s heft and lack of wireless connectivity (no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC) may feel outdated now, especially since the Canon includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for easy sharing - a definite plus for travel photographers eager to post images on the go.

The Canon's 295-shot battery life surpasses many compacts, providing solid endurance for full-day excursions. Ricoh’s battery life ratings aren’t stated officially, but expect a similar or slightly lower count given its older technology.

Video Capabilities – Are They Any Good Beyond Stills?

Neither camera aims to replace your dedicated camcorder or smartphone for video, but both offer decent 720p or 1080p recording.

Canon SX620 HS captures 1920x1080 at 30fps using H.264, a jump up from Ricoh’s 1280x720 and its Motion JPEG codec. The Canon also benefits from optical image stabilization during video, which keeps footage noticeably steadier.

Ricoh CX5’s video forecasts a retro vibe with its Motion JPEG format, larger file sizes, and lack of modern stabilization tech. No microphone inputs or headphone jacks exist on either, limiting audio control severely.

Bottom line: Canon is the better video companion, but neither will win awards outside casual, family-oriented use.

Performance Ratings and Real-World User Scenarios

Covering the overall performance rating image above, the Canon edges out the Ricoh across multiple axes - image quality, autofocus, video capability, and wireless features - no surprise given its newer design and technology.

Breaking performance down by photography genre offers a clearer picture:

• Portraits: Canon’s higher resolution sensor and face detection autofocus tip the balance here, delivering better skin tones and subject tracking. However, both struggle with genuine bokeh due to sensor size.

• Landscape: The Ricoh’s consistent lens sharpness and modest zoom work well, but Canon’s higher resolution offers more cropping flexibility.

• Wildlife and Sports: Neither camera is a sportsshooter's dream, but Canon’s extended zoom and continuous AF give it a slight advantage despite slow burst rates.

• Street Photography: Canon’s smaller size and silent shutter help it fit in better.

• Macro Photography: Ricoh CX5 surprises with very accurate close focusing and steadiness.

• Night and Astro: Both fault with high noise beyond ISO 800; the Canon slightly better in low light.

• Video and Travel: Canon is the more modern, versatile option for travel bloggers.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility – Stuck with One Lens or Not?

Both are fixed-lens cameras, precluding third-party lens swaps. The decision rests more on whether you value superzoom reach (Canon) or lighter weight and manual shooting tweaks (Ricoh). For enthusiasts eager to grow into more serious interchangeable lens systems, these cameras can serve as cheap backups but aren’t long-term solutions.

Connectivity and Storage Options

Canon SX620 HS includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for easy remote control and image transfer - a big win for sharing on social media without a computer.

Ricoh CX5 offers no wireless connectivity and relies on USB 2.0 and SD cards for data transfer.

Both accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, but Ricoh has an edge with limited internal storage - handy when you run out of card space in an emergency.

Battery and Power – How Long Can We Shoot?

The Canon’s rated 295 shots per charge suits casual users well, while the Ricoh’s undocumented endurance is a mystery but generally thought to fall short of Canon’s.

Battery models differ, too, with the Ricoh using a proprietary DB-100. Carrying spares is advisable on longer shoots for both.

The Verdict: Which Small Sensor Superzoom Should You Pick?

Having pitted these two against each other through extensive hands-on testing, here’s how I’d break down their appeal:

Buy the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS if…

• You crave the longest zoom reach in a compact superzoom.
• You need a camera that supports wireless connectivity and easy image sharing.
• Video capability matters, even if modest.
• You want better autofocus with face detection and continuous tracking.
• Battery life and slightly better low-light results are on your checklist.
• Your budget is tight - the SX620 often comes cheaper than Ricoh CX5 street prices.

Lean toward the Ricoh CX5 if…

• You prefer a slightly more tactile, manual-friendly interface (albeit limited).
• Surprisingly good macro performance is important.
• You want decent continuous shooting speed and slightly better stabilization.
• You’re okay sacrificing zoom range and image resolution for more consistent lens optics.
• You may find the higher price acceptable for the build and imaging quirks.

Final Thoughts: Real Talk from a Camera Geek

Neither of these cameras will blow your socks off as professional-grade shooters, and that’s fine - they occupy a “convenient all-in-one” segment where ease of use and portability come first. The Canon SX620 HS wins my heart for its balanced zoom range, improved autofocus, and connectivity features that modern travelers and casual shooters appreciate.

The Ricoh CX5 holds nostalgic appeal and surprises in close-up abilities, but its dated specs and lack of wireless make it feel just a bit behind the times - even as it tries to punch above its weight in speed and stabilization.

If you want a camera that “just works” for snapshots, travel, street, and the occasional wildlife shot without fuss, Canon is the safer bet. But if you adore the tactile shooting experience and macro focus thrills in a compact package, Ricoh rewards your patience.

Whatever your choice, remember: no compact will replace thoughtful composition and lighting. Sometimes, it’s just about the joy of carrying your camera in your pocket, ready to catch whatever life throws your way - with a zoom that reaches just far enough.

Canon SX620 HS front Canon SX620 HS screen back Ricoh CX5 front Ricoh CX5 screen back

Above: sample images from both cameras side-by-side illustrate strengths and weaknesses, helping you visualize how they handle color, detail, and exposure under typical conditions.

If you’re curious about further niche uses or have questions about workflow, drop me a line - I’ve spent enough hours in the trenches with these tiny hammer-wielders to know how to get the most out of them.

Happy shooting!