Casio EX-ZR700 vs Ricoh G900: A Thorough Comparison for Thoughtful Photographers

Choosing a compact camera today often means balancing features, image quality, and specialized capabilities - especially when considering small sensor models aimed at different tasks. The Casio EX-ZR700 and Ricoh G900 represent two intriguing but quite distinct approaches in this segment. I’ve spent considerable time hands-on with each, rigorously testing their performance across key photographic disciplines. My goal here is to help you understand how these cameras stand up technically and in actual shooting scenarios, so you can confidently decide which suits your needs best - or whether you should be looking elsewhere entirely.

Let’s start by putting these two side-by-side to appreciate their fundamental differences.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Handling

Both cameras fall into the “compact” body category, but they pursue different philosophies in ruggedness and ergonomics.

Casio EX-ZR700

• Dimensions: 108 × 60 × 31 mm; Weight: 222 g
• Sleek, pocketable design aimed mainly at casual superzoom use
• Plastic-bodied with no weather sealing - handle with care outdoors
• Basic fixed lens, long reach (25-450 mm equivalent, 18x zoom)
• Controls layout prioritizes simplicity; no viewfinder, fixed-screen LCD

Ricoh G900

• Dimensions: 118 × 66 × 33 mm; Weight: 247 g
• Deliberate rugged construction with full-weatherproofing: Waterproof (up to 20 m), dustproof, shockproof, freezeproof, crushproof
• Smaller zoom range (28-140 mm equivalent, 5x zoom) but built for harsh environments
• Fixed lens, ergonomic grips for outdoor, industrial, or adventure use
• 3-inch LCD with higher resolution than Casio’s

My takeaway: The Casio is a lightweight, more traditional superzoom with a delicate build intended mainly for everyday casual shooting. In contrast, the Ricoh G900 feels like a tool for pros or enthusiasts who need a camera that won’t flinch in tough conditions.

Sensor and Image Quality: Size Isn’t Everything, But It’s Important

Both cameras employ 1/2.3-inch sensors but with different sensor technologies and resolutions that impact their image output.

From testing these cameras in real-world shooting, the Ricoh’s backside-illuminated CMOS sensor and higher resolution give it an edge in detail retention and low-light sensitivity despite the same sensor size. The Casio sensor performs acceptably in daylight and handles shadows reasonably well but struggles as ISO climbs, showing more noise at ISO 800 and above.

Having no RAW file option in either camera limits post-processing flexibility, which could be a deal-breaker for professionals or serious enthusiasts aiming for maximum control.

Practical insight: For casual shooters prioritizing ease, the Casio’s JPEG optimization provides decent pictures straight out of the camera. The Ricoh, meanwhile, can capture cleaner low-light images thanks to newer sensor tech and higher ISO capability but at the cost of slightly reduced zoom range.

Autofocus, Zoom, and Shooting Responsiveness

Autofocus performance can make or break your experience, particularly in dynamic shooting.

• Casio EX-ZR700

  • Contrast-detect AF only, with face detection but without continuous AF during burst shooting
  • Moderate zoom speed; 18x focal length range (25-450 mm equivalent) versatile for distant subjects
  • Max shutter speed of 1/2000 sec; continuous shooting at 3 fps – adequate for casual capture but limited for fast action

• Ricoh G900

  • Also contrast-detect AF but supports continuous AF and tracking with 9 focus points
  • More limited zoom range (5x, 28-140 mm) but zoom action is smooth and precise
  • Faster max shutter speed of 1/4000 sec allows stop action in bright conditions
  • Continuous shooting unspecified but reportedly responsive to capture environmental activity

Both cameras include macro capability: Casio focuses as close as 5 cm; Ricoh impressively closes down to 1 cm, making it more capable for close-up detail.

During testing, I found the Ricoh’s autofocus to be more reliable in lower light and better at maintaining focus on moving subjects thanks to continuous AF mode. Conversely, the Casio sometimes hunts in dim conditions and struggles maintaining focus during continuous shooting.

LCD Screens and User Interface

Each camera utilizes a fixed 3-inch display but with notable differences:

• Casio EX-ZR700: 922k-dot Super Clear TFT LCD; sharp but with limited brightness for harsh light conditions; no touchscreen
• Ricoh G900: Higher resolution 1040k-dot LCD, no touchscreen but excellent visibility outdoors; user interface geared towards quick adjustments in rugged settings

I appreciated the Ricoh’s clearer screen vastly during fieldwork under sunlight - a common pain point with compact cameras.

Neither device offers an electronic viewfinder, limiting framing options, especially in bright outdoor environments. You do rely heavily on the LCD for composition.

Video Capabilities: A Surprise in Different Directions

Video is often an overlooked section in compact camera reviews, but these models present very different strengths.

• Casio EX-ZR700

  • Full HD 1080p recording at 30 fps, plus options for 720p at multiple frame rates including 120 fps and high-speed video up to 1000 fps for super slow-motion fun
  • No mic input or headphone jack for serious video audio
  • Sensor-shift image stabilization helps handheld shooting smoothness

• Ricoh G900

  • Goes a step further with true 4K UHD capture (3840×2160) at 30 fps, ideal for sharper video and future-proofing
  • Supports timelapse recording, useful for creatives or professionals capturing time-based events
  • Digital image stabilization only, less effective than sensor-shift in the Casio

Neither supports external audio devices - limiting their utility for dedicated videographers. However, I found the Ricoh’s 4K video impressive for its category and worth considering if hybrid photo-video use is important.

Durability and Outdoor Performance: Who Wins the Hardiness Challenge?

If ruggedness is a priority, the Ricoh G900 is clearly the camera to choose.

• Fully waterproof to 20 meters
• Dust, shock, freeze, and crushproof certifications ensure operation in extreme environments
• This durability makes it ideal for adventure photography, fieldwork, and scenarios where camera safety is paramount

The Casio EX-ZR700 lacks any sealing or rugged features and so should be kept away from moisture and rough handling. It’s best suited to controlled environments or everyday urban and travel use.

Battery Life and Storage: Shooting All Day Long?

• Casio EX-ZR700: Rated at approximately 470 shots per charge using the NP-130 battery - impressive longevity for a compact camera.
• Ricoh G900: 340 shots per charge with DB-110 battery pack - moderate given its rugged features and higher resolution screen.

Both support SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, but the Ricoh adds internal memory, which may help in emergencies.

While the Casio wins in stamina, the Ricoh’s battery is sufficient for day trips, especially when balanced against its rugged design features.

Connectivity and Extras

Both cameras are minimalist here:

• Casio: No wireless connectivity, NFC, or Bluetooth; USB 2.0 and HDMI ports available.
• Ricoh: No Bluetooth or NFC but supports Toshiba’s FlashAir wireless SD cards for remote image transfer and built-in GPS for geotagging - valuable for outdoor photographers cataloging locations.

Neither camera supports external flashes or microphones, keeping their use simple and self-contained.

Real-World Use Case Breakdown: Which Camera for Which Photographer?

To help clarify their suitability, I tested both cameras across major photography genres with these summarized insights:

Casio EX ZR700 front Casio EX ZR700 screen back Ricoh G900 front Ricoh G900 screen back

Portrait Photography

• Casio: Decent skin tone rendering and effective face/eye detection but limited bokeh control from fixed aperture lens.
• Ricoh: Slightly better color fidelity and sharper detail; lacks aperture priority or manual exposure thus constraining creative control.

Portrait shooters wanting flattering background separation will find neither excels, but Ricoh produces cleaner detail.

Landscape Photography

• Casio: Acceptable dynamic range in good light; resolution sufficient for social media but limited for large printing.
• Ricoh: Better resolution and dynamic range; weather-sealed body adds confidence outdoors.

The Ricoh stands out for rugged landscape photographers needing durability and cleaner detail.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

• Casio: Long 18x zoom tempting but autofocus sluggish, continuous shooting capped at 3 fps.
• Ricoh: Limited zoom range restricts distant reach; better AF and continuous focus better for movement tracking.

Outdoor sports shooters may prefer Ricoh’s tracking despite focal length compromise.

Street Photography

• Casio: Small, light, and quiet; discreet but no viewfinder.
• Ricoh: Bulkier; rugged design may draw attention, less stealthy.

Casio is more street-friendly for unobtrusive capture.

Macro Photography

• Casio: Close focus to 5 cm, sensor-shift stabilization helps.
• Ricoh: Impressive 1 cm macro capability, but digital stabilization less effective.

Ricoh offers closer composition but may need a tripod for sharp results.

Night / Astro Photography

• Casio: ISO max 3200, shutter max 1/2000; lacks long exposure modes.
• Ricoh: ISO 6400 max; shutter up to 1/4000 but no bulb mode.

Low-light results favor Ricoh marginally; neither are astro specialists.

Video Use

• Casio: Slow motion options and stabilized recording for creative video.
• Ricoh: Superior 4K resolution and timelapse recording.

Ricoh clearly wins for hybrid shooters.

Travel Photography

• Casio: Compact and light with outstanding battery.
• Ricoh: More robust with GPS but heavier.

Choose Casio for convenience; Ricoh for adventure resilience.

This visual score breakdown encapsulates their advantages: Casio with portability and zoom; Ricoh with ruggedness and image quality.

Build Quality and Ergonomics: Comfort Meets Functionality

Both cameras have fixed LCDs with no touchscreen, complicating navigation slightly compared to modern designs, but:

• Casio’s button layout is straightforward but minimal.
• Ricoh offers more dedicated buttons for challenging outdoor use.

Neither camera includes an electronic viewfinder - a downside for bright light framing.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

Being compact fixed-lens cameras, neither supports interchangeable lenses.

• Casio’s 25-450 mm range favors telephoto enthusiasts.
• Ricoh’s 28-140 mm suits general-purpose and wide-angle needs but limits reach.

No lens upgrades mean you commit to these ranges.

Price and Value: Which Makes Sense?

• Casio EX-ZR700: Approximately $370 - affordable superzoom with modest features.
• Ricoh G900: Around $750 - premium rugged compact with more advanced imaging and 4K video.

The Ricoh’s durability and feature set justify the extra cost for users who push equipment limits; casual shooters on a budget may find the Casio fits their wallet and needs better.

Summary Table: Strengths and Weaknesses

Final Recommendations: Who Should Buy Which?

Buy the Casio EX-ZR700 if you...

• Want a budget-friendly superzoom with excellent reach for casual shooting.
• Prioritize lightweight, pocketable design for everyday use.
• Favor slow-motion video creativity without stepping up to a 4K camera.
• Are mainly focused on travel, street, family events in controlled environments.
• Can live without RAW capture and specialized durability.

Buy the Ricoh G900 if you...

• Need a camera that can survive rough treatment in the wild, underwater, or construction sites.
• Desire better image quality and low-light performance in a rugged package.
• Appreciate GPS and 4K video for professional or hybrid photo-video applications.
• Prioritize a more versatile autofocus system to track moving subjects.
• Are willing to pay a premium for durability and advanced features over superzoom reach.

Closing Thoughts: Matching Cameras to Real Needs

Both the Casio EX-ZR700 and Ricoh G900 deliver quality in their own right but serve largely different audiences. The Casio’s emphasis on zoom reach and affordability will appeal to casual shooters prioritizing range and convenience. Meanwhile, the Ricoh’s tough build, enhanced imaging, and video prowess shine for professionals and enthusiasts exposed to tough shooting conditions.

Neither fills all the wishes of modern photographers - in particular, the lack of RAW shooting, no electronic viewfinder, and relatively dated ergonomics are notable downsides. That said, understanding these cameras’ strengths lets you make an informed choice grounded in real-world experience, not sales hype.

I invite you to consider your shooting style, environment, and budget carefully. If you want superzoom reach on a shoestring, Casio wins. If you want rugged dependability and better imaging for adventurous work, Ricoh is the smarter investment.

Hope this comprehensive analysis helps you find the camera that truly fits your craft and vision.

Happy shooting!