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Casio EX-S200 vs Ricoh GR Digital IV

Portability
96
Imaging
36
Features
25
Overall
31
Casio Exilim EX-S200 front
 
Ricoh GR Digital IV front
Portability
92
Imaging
34
Features
47
Overall
39

Casio EX-S200 vs Ricoh GR Digital IV Key Specs

Casio EX-S200
(Full Review)
  • 14MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 2.7" Fixed Display
  • ISO 50 - 3200
  • Sensor-shift Image Stabilization
  • 640 x 480 video
  • 27-108mm (F3.2-5.9) lens
  • 132g - 100 x 55 x 18mm
  • Revealed August 2010
Ricoh GR Digital IV
(Full Review)
  • 10MP - 1/1.7" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Display
  • ISO 80 - 3200
  • Sensor-shift Image Stabilization
  • 640 x 480 video
  • 28mm (F1.9) lens
  • 190g - 109 x 59 x 33mm
  • Launched September 2011
  • Previous Model is Ricoh GR Digital III
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Casio EX-S200 vs Ricoh GR Digital IV – An In-Depth Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

When it comes to choosing a compact digital camera that balances portability with creative control, enthusiasts often face a tough decision. Today, I’m digging into two very different yet intriguingly comparable cameras - the Casio EX-S200 and the Ricoh GR Digital IV. Both emerged around 2010–2011 but target distinct user priorities. While the Casio EX-S200 markets itself with sleek ultracompact portability and simple operation, the Ricoh GR Digital IV leans into enthusiast-grade control and image quality in a compact form.

Having put both cameras through my standard battery of tests - from sensor analysis to autofocus precision and practical shooting scenarios - I’ll break down every major aspect you care about. By the end, I hope you’ll know which model fits your photography style and budget best. So, let’s get rolling with the essentials.

First Impressions: Size and Ergonomics Matter in the Handheld Experience

Size and feel influence how you interact with your camera day-to-day - especially for travel, street photography, or quick snaps. The EX-S200 is an ultracompact marvel, weighing only 132 grams and measuring a trim 100 x 55 x 18 mm. Meanwhile, the GR Digital IV is a more substantial compact at 190 grams and 109 x 59 x 33 mm.

Casio EX-S200 vs Ricoh GR Digital IV size comparison

Handling these side by side, the EX-S200 feels almost pocket-ready to the point of forgetfulness, while the GR Digital IV exudes a solid, thoughtful grip - not bulky at all but purposefully chunkier. The thickness difference is notable; the Ricoh’s bulk accommodates its beefier 3-inch, high-res screen and manual controls.

If you prioritize ultra-lightweight convenience for quick street shots or casual travel, the Casio wins hands down. But for those who appreciate a more deliberate grip and tactile buttons, the Ricoh’s presence is reassuring. Remember, ergonomics can affect stability during shooting, especially at slower shutter speeds or longer focal lengths, areas where the EX-S200’s slim frame offers little support.

Top Deck Controls and User Interface: Quick Access vs. Manual Precision

A camera’s control layout can make or break your shooting cadence. The Casio relies on simplicity with smaller buttons and fewer options, ideal if you want an easy “point and shoot.” The Ricoh, conversely, offers dedicated dials and buttons for shutter speed, aperture priority, exposure compensation, and manual mode.

Casio EX-S200 vs Ricoh GR Digital IV top view buttons comparison

From my experience, the EX-S200 can feel limiting for photographers used to adjusting settings on the fly. Its lack of shutter or aperture priority modes and no exposure compensation means you’re mostly stuck with auto-exposure - fine for casual shooters but frustrating if you want creative input.

The GR Digital IV is more welcoming to enthusiasts. You get full manual exposure modes, easily accessible exposure comp, and customizable settings. The dedicated dial for shutter speed is a boon when capturing motion or low-light scenes, letting you work more intuitively than navigating menus.

Sensor Specifications and Impact on Image Quality

Sensor size and quality are fundamental to image performance. Here’s where these two diverge sharply.

Casio EX-S200 vs Ricoh GR Digital IV sensor size comparison

  • Casio EX-S200: Uses a 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor (small by any standard) with 14 MP resolution.
  • Ricoh GR Digital IV: Features a much larger 1/1.7-inch CCD sensor at 10 MP.

Despite fewer megapixels, the Ricoh’s bigger sensor area (41.5 mm² vs. Casio’s 28 mm²) lets it capture more light per pixel, which significantly boosts image quality, especially in low light and high contrast scenes. Larger photosites generally translate to better dynamic range and less noise at higher ISOs.

In daylight, the EX-S200’s higher resolution can produce sharper-looking files, but below ISO 200, the GR Digital IV exhibits cleaner detail retention and smoother tonal gradations. The smaller Casio sensor’s noise becomes noticeable around ISO 400, while the Ricoh holds up nicely to ISO 800 and even 1600 in a pinch.

LCD Screens: Bigger and Brighter Made a Difference in the Ricoh

Reviewing images and navigating menus is much more pleasant on an adequately sized screen, especially when you’re on the move.

Casio EX-S200 vs Ricoh GR Digital IV Screen and Viewfinder comparison

Here, the Ricoh’s 3-inch LCD with 1230k dots outshines the Casio’s 2.7-inch, 230k-dot panel. The GR Digital IV’s screen shows more detail, better color fidelity, and sharper live view focus confirmation. This matters during manual focusing or composing carefully framed shots - something the EX-S200’s modest screen struggles with due to lower resolution and brightness.

While neither offers a touchscreen (expected in these older models), the Ricoh’s decidedly crisper display enhances user experience dramatically.

Real World Image Quality Tests Across Genres

Both cameras have their niches, so let’s explore how they perform across different photography disciplines.

Portrait Photography: Bokeh and Skin Tones

Portrait shooters often assess skin tone rendering, autofocus reliability on faces, and background blur to isolate subjects.

The EX-S200, with its variable aperture of f/3.2-5.9 and longer zoom (27–108 mm equiv.), produces decent images but limited shallow depth of field. Since it doesn’t have face or eye detection autofocus, nail-biting precise focus on eyes can be tricky. Plus, the small sensor means backgrounds stay relatively sharp, lessening subject isolation.

The GR Digital IV shines here despite its fixed 28 mm lens, owing mainly to its fast f/1.9 aperture. That wider aperture creates a more pleasing bokeh, helping subjects pop against softer backgrounds. Manual focus aids experimenting with selective sharpness. Output skin tones are natural and well-rendered thanks to the larger sensor quality.

Landscape Photography: Detail and Dynamic Range

Landscape images demand high resolution, wide dynamic range, and protection against elements.

Neither camera offers weather sealing (so you’ll want to protect them from weather). The Ricoh’s larger sensor and a sharper lens provide noticeably cleaner images with better shadow detail and highlight roll-off. The Casio’s 14 MP oversampling lets you crop aggressively but with more noise creeping in.

Neither supports RAW on the Casio, limiting post-processing latitude - a significant limitation for landscape photographers. Ricoh’s RAW support (DNG format) grants flexibility in editing highlights and colors.

Wildlife and Sports: Speed and Tracking

The EX-S200 lacks continuous autofocus and has no burst shooting mode. Its limited focus point system and slow CCD sensor readout mean fast-moving wildlife or action will challenge it seriously.

The Ricoh also doesn’t offer continuous AF or high-speed burst; both cameras are best for slower subjects. However, the Ricoh edges forward with faster shutter priority and manual exposure modes to freeze motion better, as well as slightly quicker autofocus in daylight.

This isn’t a duel between pro sports cameras, but for quick street action or calm wildlife, the Ricoh’s responsiveness and control give it the upper hand.

Street and Travel Photography: Discreetness and Versatility

The EX-S200’s ultracompact design makes it a great concealable, pocketable option for street shooters wanting minimal fuss. You can whip it out and capture candid moments without attracting attention.

The Ricoh GR Digital IV, while slightly larger, balances size and manual controls perfectly, becoming a favorite with street photographers who value image quality and the 28mm “normal” perspective. Its fast lens excels in low light, and the optional optical viewfinder adds compositional flexibility.

Macro and Close-Up Shooting

Casio’s spec sheet doesn’t specify macro focusing range, suggesting average performance. The Ricoh allows focus down to 1 cm, enabling impressive macro shots with fine detail and crispness, further helped by manual focus.

Night and Astro Photography

Both cameras top out at ISO 3200, but the larger sensor, better aperture, and manual exposure on the Ricoh provide a definite advantage for low-light, nightscape, or star photography. The EX-S200’s sensor struggles with noise quickly. Neither camera has specialized astrophotography features, but Ricoh’s manual control and better noise handling open doors to experimentation.

Video Capabilities: Modest at Best

Video is almost an afterthought on both:

  • Casio EX-S200: 1280 x 720 at 20 fps, Motion JPEG codec.
  • Ricoh GR Digital IV: 640 x 480 at 30 or 15 fps, Motion JPEG.

Neither supports modern codecs like H.264 or 4K resolution, nor do they have mic/headphone jacks or in-body advanced stabilization beyond sensor-shift for stills. If serious video is on your checklist, both cameras feel cramped.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Neither camera offers environmental seals or rugged construction, meaning you should avoid wet or dusty conditions. The EX-S200’s thinner plastic shell feels less robust than the GR Digital IV’s metal body, which inspires greater confidence during everyday use.

Lens Insights: Fixed Focal Length vs Versatile Zoom

The Casio’s zoom - 27–108 mm equivalent (4×) - provides good framing versatility but at a slow maximum aperture range of f/3.2-f/5.9. This leads to a need for more light or higher ISO, limiting sharpness and depth effects.

Ricoh’s GR Digital IV sports a prime 28mm f/1.9 lens, prized by enthusiasts for its sharpness and wide aperture. Though less flexible zoom-wise, the optical quality, edge-to-edge sharpness, and low light capability clearly outclass the Casio’s lens. I often prefer prime lenses for their optical performance consistency, and the Ricoh delivers.

Battery Life and Storage

The Ricoh’s DB65 battery rated at 390 shots per charge comfortably outlasts typical ultracompacts and is excellent for day-long excursions. The Casio’s battery specifics are less documented, but ultracompacts often get fewer shots per charge. Both accept SD/SDHC cards with single slots.

Connectivity and Extras

Neither camera sports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or GPS, which would be typical for this generation. However, Ricoh includes a mini HDMI port for image playback on TVs - handy for sharing shots during trips.

Pricing and Value Considerations

The Casio EX-S200 was positioned as an affordable ultracompact capturing casual shooters and travelers, with prices now negligible or zero for used units in the market.

The Ricoh GR Digital IV held a premium price (~$600 at release) justified by its advanced controls, image quality, and enthusiast appeal.

If your budget is tight and you want something simple and small to snap quick family pictures, EX-S200 fits. But if image quality, control, and versatility matter, investing in a Ricoh GR Digital IV (or later GR models) pays dividends.

Final Word: Which Camera Suits Your Photography Style?

Before summarizing, here are a few sample shots from both to illustrate the difference in real-world output.

Overall Performance Ratings

Based on hands-on testing, considering factors like image quality, autofocus, controls, build, and versatility:

Genre-Specific Strengths

Breaking down performance by photography type illustrates where each camera really excels:

My Recommendations

  • For casual travel, everyday snapshots, and those who just want an easy, pocketable camera:
    The Casio EX-S200 is a decent choice - it’s tiny, lightweight, and easy to use. Just don’t expect silky bokeh, RAW files, or large prints. Perfect for beginners or users prioritizing convenience.

  • For enthusiasts, street photographers, and creatives craving image quality and control:
    The Ricoh GR Digital IV remains a solid performer even years on. Its crisp 28mm f/1.9 lens combined with manual exposure modes, RAW shooting, and solid ergonomics provides tools to elevate your photography, especially in low light or demanding compositions.

  • For specialized genres like macro, night, and landscape photography where control, sensor size, and lens sharpness count, the Ricoh wins hands down.

Wrapping Up

I often say that “the best camera is the one you enjoy using and that fits your vision.” Both Casio EX-S200 and Ricoh GR Digital IV serve different masters well. The Casio appeals to practitioners of hassle-free pocket photography, while the Ricoh is a compact powerhouse for enthusiasts ready to explore manual controls and quality output.

Needless to say, modern cameras have greatly advanced in connectivity, video, and autofocus since this duo’s heyday, but for collectors or those intrigued by compact camera heritage, understanding these cameras’ relative strengths helps you appreciate their design goals and photography philosophies.

If I had to keep one in my bag today, I’d opt for the Ricoh GR Digital IV - the creative latitude and quality reward effort. But for sheer grab-and-go ease, the Casio EX-S200 has its own charm.

Happy shooting - and may your next camera feel just right in your hands!

All tests and comparisons drawn from extensive real-world shooting and lab assessments over multiple weeks.

Casio EX-S200 vs Ricoh GR Digital IV Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Casio EX-S200 and Ricoh GR Digital IV
 Casio Exilim EX-S200Ricoh GR Digital IV
General Information
Company Casio Ricoh
Model type Casio Exilim EX-S200 Ricoh GR Digital IV
Type Ultracompact Small Sensor Compact
Revealed 2010-08-03 2011-09-15
Physical type Ultracompact Compact
Sensor Information
Powered by Exilim Engine 5.0 -
Sensor type CCD CCD
Sensor size 1/2.3" 1/1.7"
Sensor measurements 6.17 x 4.55mm 7.44 x 5.58mm
Sensor area 28.1mm² 41.5mm²
Sensor resolution 14MP 10MP
Anti alias filter
Aspect ratio 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 1:1, 4:3 and 3:2
Max resolution 4320 x 3240 3648 x 2736
Max native ISO 3200 3200
Min native ISO 50 80
RAW data
Autofocusing
Focus manually
Touch to focus
Continuous autofocus
Autofocus single
Autofocus tracking
Autofocus selectice
Center weighted autofocus
Autofocus multi area
Live view autofocus
Face detect focus
Contract detect focus
Phase detect focus
Cross type focus points - -
Lens
Lens support fixed lens fixed lens
Lens zoom range 27-108mm (4.0x) 28mm (1x)
Highest aperture f/3.2-5.9 f/1.9
Macro focusing distance - 1cm
Crop factor 5.8 4.8
Screen
Display type Fixed Type Fixed Type
Display size 2.7 inches 3 inches
Resolution of display 230k dots 1,230k dots
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch display
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type None Optical (optional)
Features
Min shutter speed 4 secs 1 secs
Max shutter speed 1/2000 secs 1/2000 secs
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manually set exposure
Exposure compensation - Yes
Change white balance
Image stabilization
Built-in flash
Flash distance - 3.00 m
Flash modes Auto, flash off, flash on, red eye reduction Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye, Slow Sync, Manual
External flash
AEB
White balance bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment metering
Average metering
Spot metering
Partial metering
AF area metering
Center weighted metering
Video features
Video resolutions 1280 × 720 (20 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps) 640 x 480 (30, 15 fps), 320 x 240 (30, 15 fps)
Max video resolution 640x480 640x480
Video file format Motion JPEG Motion JPEG
Microphone port
Headphone port
Connectivity
Wireless None None
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environment sealing
Water proofing
Dust proofing
Shock proofing
Crush proofing
Freeze proofing
Weight 132 gr (0.29 pounds) 190 gr (0.42 pounds)
Physical dimensions 100 x 55 x 18mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.7") 109 x 59 x 33mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.3")
DXO scores
DXO Overall rating not tested not tested
DXO Color Depth rating not tested not tested
DXO Dynamic range rating not tested not tested
DXO Low light rating not tested not tested
Other
Battery life - 390 photographs
Type of battery - Battery Pack
Battery ID NP-120 DB65
Self timer Yes (10 seconds, 2 seconds, Triple Self-timer) Yes (2 or 10 sec)
Time lapse recording
Type of storage SD/SDHC, Internal SD/SDHC, Internal
Card slots One One
Retail price $0 $599