FujiFilm JX300 vs Ricoh G700SE

FujiFilm JX300 vs. Ricoh G700SE: A Compact Camera Battle of Practicality and Purpose

In the era when smartphones were beginning their photographic invasion, compact cameras still held ground - each carving out a niche with specific strengths. Today, we’re diving deep into two intriguing models from that time: the FujiFilm FinePix JX300 and the Ricoh G700SE. Both announced around 2010-2011, they represent distinct ideas about what compact cameras should be.

The FujiFilm JX300 is a straightforward, budget-friendly compact, designed for casual shooters who want simplicity and a decent zoom range. Ricoh’s G700SE, meanwhile, ventures into rugged territory - a waterproof, weather-sealed compact aimed at professionals or enthusiasts needing durability in challenging conditions.

I’ve spent a good few weeks handling both, scrutinizing their quirks, and putting them through their paces across genres from street to macro to travel. If you’re wondering how these two stack up - practically and technically - let’s get to it.

Size, Handling, and Ergonomics - The Feel Factor

One of the first things that hits you when comparing any cameras is their physical heft and shape - these affect usability as much as specs.

Looking at dimensions and weight, FujiFilm’s JX300 is delightfully pocketable at 94×56×24mm and tipping the scales at just 130g. This is an ultra-light companion, great for slipping into a jacket pocket or small handbag without feeling like a burden.

Contrast that with the Ricoh G700SE, which is noticeably chunkier (117×68×32mm) and heavier at 307g. Roughly double the weight and a good deal bigger, it’s clear Ricoh’s priorities lie in ruggedness rather than stealthy portability. The G700SE’s robust build naturally invites a firmer grip, which helps in stressful shooting environments like hiking or water sports.

Design-wise, both cameras have a fixed lens and a simple compact body type, but Ricoh’s addition of environmental sealing means extra bulk and thicker plastic armor - not exactly sleek, but reassuring if your adventure includes splashes or dust.

The FujiFilm, meanwhile, appeals to casual shooters looking for convenience over toughness. When I held the JX300, I liked how it disappears in hand, almost a “grab and go” device.

Control Layout: Simplicity vs. Usability

On to the user interface. For cameras this small, button placement and screen quality really impact how effortlessly you can change settings.

Both lack viewfinders - meaning reliance on their rear LCD screens and live view autofocus - but FujiFilm’s JX300 relies on a tiny 2.7-inch, 230k-dot fixed screen. It’s on the dim and low-res side, which made framing less than pleasant in bright daylight. By contrast, Ricoh’s G700SE sports a larger 3-inch LCD panel with a much sharper 920k-dot resolution. This difference isn’t just technical trivia - it translates to noticeably easier focusing and reviewing images in the field, especially under sunlight.

Controls are typically minimal on compacts, and both cameras restrict serious manual tweaking; none offers aperture or shutter priority modes, nor raw support. Instead, you’re mostly reliant on auto and basic exposure settings. Ricoh edges ahead slightly because of manual focus capability - a rare feature on rugged compacts. This allows fine control for tricky macro shots or precise focusing in challenging scenes.

FujiFilm’s autofocus, while contrast-detection and reasonably quick in good light, lacks face or eye detection - hardly surprising for a 2011 entry-level point-and-shoot. Ricoh has a multi-area AF system but no face detection either, placing emphasis on contrast autofocus point selection, with no continuous tracking.

If you prize tactile control and sharp screens, Ricoh’s layout feels more usable. For simple point-and-shoot snaps, FujiFilm’s setup keeps things minimal and straightforward.

Image Quality and Sensor Technology: Picking Pixels

Both cameras employ 1/2.3" CCD sensors - a standard size for compacts then - but with a few notable differences.

The FujiFilm JX300 offers 14 megapixels at a maximum 4288×3216 resolution, while the Ricoh G700SE comes in slightly lower at 12 megapixels with max resolution 4000×3000. Numerically, the FujiFilm leads on resolution, but megapixels aren’t the full story.

CCD sensors in this category generally excel at producing pleasing colors and decent sharpness at base ISO (100 or 64 in Ricoh’s case). Both cameras showed similar dynamic range limitations during test shoots - in bright landscapes, shadows tended to clip early, and highlight recovery was modest.

Low-light performance suffers predictably, with FujiFilm’s max ISO at 1600 (boosted to 3200) and Ricoh’s native ISO range starting lower at 64 and capped at 3200. But neither is a night photography champion - both reveal noise and loss of detail beyond ISO 800. Surprisingly, the FujiFilm does slightly better managing noise than Ricoh at higher ISOs, likely due to some internal processing magic, though neither camera has built-in image stabilization to help keep shots sharp at slower shutter speeds.

Both cameras have an anti-aliasing filter, which can soften fine textures slightly but helps reduce moiré - useful for general-purpose shooting.

Given their sensor tech, neither is a landscape champion where ultimate resolution or dynamic range is required, but for casual snapshots and daylight use, they hold their own adequately.

Photo Genres: Real-World Use Cases

How do these specs and designs translate into practical use? Let’s look genre by genre.

Portrait Photography - Skin Tones & Bokeh

Portrait lovers often demand accurate skin rendering and the ability to isolate subjects from backgrounds.

Neither camera boasts large aperture lenses - FujiFilm spans f/2.6 to f/6.2, Ricoh f/3.5 to f/5.5 - so shallow depth of field for creamy bokeh is limited. On close-ups, FujiFilm’s lens does better at f/2.6 for the wide end, allowing slightly better background blur when shooting tight portraits.

Autofocus isn’t particularly sophisticated: FujiFilm’s contrast-detection AF is not face-aware, and Ricoh’s slower AF means you need patience, especially in dimmer conditions. No eye detection here (this was years before it became standard).

Skin tones out of FujiFilm lean pleasantly warm, though slightly prone to over-saturation under bright light, which may or may not be your style. Ricoh’s color is more neutral, perhaps less flattering to portraits but more accurate overall.

Landscape Photography - Details and Durability

Landscape shoots demand high resolution, good dynamic range, and ideally weather sealing.

Neither camera excels in landscape image quality because of the small sensors and limited dynamic range. Despite FujiFilm having higher pixel count, edge softness and vignetting creep in at the telephoto end (140mm equivalent).

If you want a camera to tag along on rugged outdoor shoots, Ricoh’s G700SE immediately takes the lead. Its weather sealing and waterproof capabilities mean you can shoot at waterfalls, on rainy hikes, or near oceans without fear. FujiFilm offers no such protection.

Just remember to bring a sturdy tripod with Ricoh, as shake can creep into those long landscape exposures due to lack of stabilization.

Wildlife Photography - Autofocus and Speed

Wildlife requires fast, reliable autofocus and burst shooting capability to catch fleeting moments.

Here both cameras fall short in rapid shooting departments - in fact, FujiFilm’s continuous shooting is sluggish at 1 frame per second; Ricoh doesn’t officially specify burst rates but is known to be unremarkable in this regard.

Neither has phase-detection AF or high cross-type points for quick tracking. FujiFilm does offer continuous AF, Ricoh does not. Without face or animal eye detection, both rely on contrast AF which struggles with moving subjects.

For serious wildlife, neither is ideal. However, Ricoh’s robust body might let you take it places others won’t survive.

Sports Photography - Tracking and Low Light

Sports is where cameras are truly tested - high-speed autofocus, tracking, and frame rates are critical.

The FujiFilm JX300 and Ricoh G700SE cater to a different user, so both perform poorly here. With max shutter speeds of 1/1800s (FujiFilm) and 1/1500s (Ricoh), and minimal continuous shooting capability, it’s tough to freeze action convincingly.

And low-light performance limits both in indoor sports - no stabilization, noisy images at high ISO, and slow AF in dim environments.

Street Photography - Stealth and Convenience

Street shooters often prize discretion, ease of use, and portability.

FujiFilm’s ultra-lightweight, compact body and simple controls align well with a “grab and snap” philosophy. The small size and silent operation mean you’re less conspicuous - important for candid street imagery.

Ricoh’s G700SE is less subtle with its rugged body and extra heft, but the excellent LCD and manual focusing might appeal to those wanting sturdier gear that can also handle unexpected weather changes - imagine street rains or dusty markets.

Macro Photography - Close Focus and Precision

Close-up photography benefits from focusing precision and minimum focusing distance.

Ricoh’s macro range is a standout here, boasting a minimum focusing distance of just 1cm - impressive for a compact. FujiFilm trails with a 10cm macro range, meaning you can get closer with Ricoh to tiny subjects.

However, neither camera sports focus stacking or focus bracketing - a limitation if you want extreme depth of field in macros.

Night and Astrophotography - ISO and Exposure

Neither is particularly suited for night or astrophotography due to sensor size, lack of raw shooting, and absence of advanced long exposure modes.

Their max shutter speeds (up to 30s or so) are enough for basic night scenes but limited by noisy output at high ISO. No image stabilization makes handheld night shots very difficult.

FujiFilm’s slightly better noise control gives it a small advantage here, but neither replaces a mirrorless or DSLR in low-light prowess.

Video Capabilities - Specs and Usability

Both cameras offer video, but treat your expectations accordingly.

FujiFilm JX300 shoots up to 1280×720p (HD) at 30fps in Motion JPEG format - simple and basic. Ricoh G700SE limits recording to 640×480, a standard definition at the time, which feels quite behind as of 2011.

Neither supports external microphones, headphone ports, or advanced stabilization, making them unsuitable for serious videography.

Travel Photography - Versatility and Battery Life

For travel, a camera must balance versatility with battery endurance and portability.

FujiFilm’s JX300 excels with its ultralight design and ease-of-use, perfect for tourist snapshots where weight and space matter.

Ricoh G700SE’s rugged build makes it attractive for adventure travel - think kayaking, climbing, rainforest trekking - places where a fragile camera would fear to tread.

Battery life favors Ricoh given its interchangeable DB-60 battery (though exact life figures are unspecified), whereas FujiFilm’s fixed battery pack runs roughly 180 shots, which is reasonable but less flexible.

Professional Workflows - File Formats and Reliability

Neither camera supports RAW capture, limiting post-processing flexibility - a significant downside for professionals.

The Ricoh’s optional GPS is a helpful addition for geotagging on location shoots, especially documentation work.

Build quality favors Ricoh for demanding work environments, whereas FujiFilm aligns more with casual, everyday photography.

Technical Under the Hood: Beyond the Specs

Sensor and image processor details remain sparse, but from hands-on testing:

• Both use CCD sensors typical of entry compacts in their era, prioritizing color fidelity over high ISO performance.
• FujiFilm’s autofocus system is contrast-based but supports continuous AF; Ricoh offers selectable AF points but no continuous mode.
• Image stabilization is absent in both - making tripod or steady hands necessary at slower shutter speeds.
• Storage-wise, both accept SD/SDHC cards, Ricoh additionally offers some internal memory - a handy backup feature.
• Connectivity is minimal with just USB 2.0; neither camera supports WiFi, Bluetooth, or NFC, which limits instant sharing or remote control.

Real-World Sample Images: Seeing Is Believing

After numerous outings capturing landscapes, portraits, and street snapshots, the output reveals each camera’s personality.

FujiFilm JX300 front FujiFilm JX300 screen back Ricoh G700SE front Ricoh G700SE screen back

FujiFilm’s images tend to carry vivid colors and punchy contrast - sometimes a bit aggressive - but skin tones are generally warm and pleasant.

Ricoh’s shots are more neutral and slightly softer, with better control on exposure in high-contrast scenes thanks to its metering behavior.

Neither camera deals elegantly with low light, showing noise and loss of detail, but Ricoh’s macro shots impress with close-up clarity.

Performance Ratings: A Snapshot Summary

To distill the nuances into an overview:

• FujiFilm JX300 scores well on ease-of-use, portability, and resolution.
• Ricoh G700SE outperforms in ruggedness, macro capability, and screen quality.
• Both lag in advanced autofocus, video features, and high ISO performance.

Performance by Photography Type

Here’s how they rate across specific photographic disciplines:

• Portrait: FujiFilm edges Ricoh on skin tone rendering and bokeh ability.
• Landscape: Ricoh leads due to durability despite softer images.
• Wildlife & Sports: Neither well-suited, but Ricoh’s ruggedness gives it a contextual edge.
• Street: FujiFilm wins for discreteness and portability.
• Macro: Ricoh’s 1cm focus tip is a clear advantage.
• Night: Both low performers; FujiFilm slightly better noise control.
• Video: FujiFilm better quality; Ricoh limited to SD.
• Travel: Depends on style - FujiFilm for light travel, Ricoh for adventure.
• Professional: Ricoh favored for reliability; neither for pro image quality.

Value for Money: What You Get for Your Bucks

At approximately $110 new (back in 2011), the FujiFilm JX300 was a budget-friendly compact offering decent image quality in a tiny package.

The Ricoh G700SE’s price was notably higher, reflecting its rugged features and enhanced build quality - aimed at professionals needing durability.

Considering the specs and usage scenarios, FujiFilm is a solid choice as an entry-level walk-around camera if you prioritize ease and lightness. Ricoh demands a premium but supplies peace of mind outdoors, plus closer focusing and sturdier construction.

Who Should Buy Which Camera?

• Pick the FujiFilm JX300 if:

  • You want a pocket-friendly, simple compact for everyday casual snapshots.
  • Portability, lightness, and ease override ruggedness.
  • You shoot mostly outdoors in fair weather, on travel or street photography.
  • You prefer mildly punchy colors with minimal fuss.

• Pick the Ricoh G700SE if:

  • You need a camera that won’t shy from splashes, rain, or dusty conditions.
  • Macro photography excites you and you want to get extremely close.
  • You appreciate a larger, sharper LCD for precise framing.
  • Your shooting environments are tough, and durability matters.

Final Thoughts: Two Cameras, Two Worlds

These cameras share a sensor size and similar zoom ranges but deliver markedly different photography experiences. The FujiFilm JX300 is a classic point-and-shoot - lightweight, straightforward, and designed for casual photographers. The Ricoh G700SE is a niche champion - less about image glory and more about surviving and shooting where others might fail.

Neither can compete with modern mirrorless or smartphones in speed, autofocus sophistication, or image quality, but both hold nostalgic charm and fulfill specific use cases.

Depending on your photographic ambitions and shooting environments, either could be your quirky companion on photo adventures - whether urban strolls or watery expeditions.

Thanks for reading this detailed showdown. If you’ve tried either camera or have further questions on compact alternatives, drop a comment or reach out - I’m always up for sharing more hands-on insights.