Nikon AW110 vs Ricoh WG-5 GPS

Nikon AW110 vs Ricoh WG-5 GPS: Tough Compact Cameras Put to the Test

When it comes to rugged, waterproof compacts, the market has seen a strong evolution over the past decade. The Nikon Coolpix AW110 and Ricoh WG-5 GPS both aim to serve adventurous photographers demanding durability without sacrificing core imaging capabilities. But which of these all-terrain cameras is truly fit for your active lifestyle and creative goals? Having logged extensive hours behind the viewfinders, on hiking trails, underwater, and in city streets, I’m here to offer a no-nonsense, carefully measured comparison of these widely respected models.

Let’s dive deep into their design, imaging performance, autofocus systems, and more - illuminating real-world usage insights often overlooked by spec sheets. Whether your focus is on landscape expeditions, wildlife snapshots, or travel documentation, we’ll find the best fit.

Built To Survive: Size, Handling & Ergonomics

Both cameras are categorized as compact “tough” models designed for harsh environments. However, the differences in physical size and handling reveal a lot about intended use cases and user comfort.

Nikon AW110 measures a trim 110×65×25 mm, weighing 193g - noticeably petite and pocket-friendly among waterproof compact cameras. Its slim profile appeals to travelers who prize lightness and quick deployment, especially when moving fast or packing minimal gear.

In contrast, Ricoh WG-5 GPS is chunkier at 125×65×32 mm and heavier at 236g - still pocketable but more substantial, presumably compensating with enhanced ruggedness and control options. The robust build conveys confidence, reassuring users in extreme conditions like climbing, diving, or cold weather.

Looking at overall ergonomics, the AW110 opts for a simpler top layout with fewer buttons, favoring simplicity. The WG-5 GPS has more tactile controls and an accessible dial for exposure compensation and mode adjustments - a boon when gloved or in wet conditions.

From hours of handling both cameras in various shooting scenarios, I appreciate WG-5 GPS’s superior grip and button feedback, which substantially reduces fumbling outdoors. The Nikon’s smaller form is excellent for portability but sacrifices some ease of operation in tough environments.

Sensor and Image Quality: What’s Behind the Lens?

Both cameras feature 1/2.3” sensors boasting a 16MP resolution, a common trait in this category. While specs look similar, sensor technology and lens design details influence output quality markedly.

• Nikon AW110 uses a standard CMOS sensor paired with a 28-140 mm (5x optical zoom) lens at f/3.9-4.8 aperture.
• Ricoh WG-5 GPS features a BSI-CMOS sensor (backside illuminated) that enhances low-light performance, coupled with a faster 25-100 mm lens beginning at f/2.0 aperture.

This faster aperture wide end on the WG-5 GPS is a game-changer, particularly for shooting in dim conditions or creating selective focus effects. The Nikon’s lens is longer in reach but slower, which can be limiting when light is scarce.

In real-world shooting, WG-5 GPS delivers crisper images and better noise control above ISO 800, thanks largely to the BSI design and superior image stabilization (sensor-shift vs. Nikon’s optical system). Nikon’s files exhibit slightly more softness and noise creep at higher sensitivities.

The Nikon fares well in bright daylight and produces pleasing color but is best reserved for moderate ISO shots. Meanwhile, Ricoh’s sensor and lens combo provide more versatility across a broader range of lighting - a definite plus for travel and casual wildlife.

Viewing Experience: Screens and Interface

Neither camera offers an electronic viewfinder, which is expected in this category. Instead, you work through a 3-inch rear LCD - but the differences here are subtle yet impactful.

The Nikon AW110’s OLED screen on paper offers vivid contrast and good viewing angles despite its modest 614k-dot resolution. This panel holds up well under bright sunlight and underwater situations (with some effort).

Ricoh WG-5 GPS, however, sports a 460k-dot LCD without OLED technology. While seemingly inferior, its anti-reflective coatings and better brightness adjustments made shadow detail easier to frame on my hikes.

Both displays lack touchscreen functionality, which didn’t feel like a deal-breaker in rugged outdoor use given the button interfaces. However, the more intuitive control layout of the WG-5 GPS makes menu navigation less cumbersome - a helpful attribute when shooting on the go.

Autofocus Performance: Tracking Your Subject Under Pressure

Tough cameras can’t just survive impacts and water - they must also focus quickly and accurately on dynamic subjects. Comparing the Nikon’s contrast-detection system with its modest 9 focus points against Ricoh’s more sophisticated contrast-detection AF with 9 points and live view support shows notable differences.

The WG-5 GPS stands out with continuous AF modes and tracking, assisting in capturing moving subjects like wildlife or children at play. Nikon’s AW110 offers face detection with center weighted AF but lacks continuous and selective AF modes, limiting its ability to lock onto erratic targets.

In my field tests photographing birds and running kids under variable light, the Ricoh demonstrated quicker lock times and a higher keeper rate. Nikon was more prone to lag and missed shots - not unexpected given its earlier design vintage.

Durability and Extreme Environment Readiness

Both cameras advertise impressive environmental sealing, but details illuminate their specific rugged credentials:

Ricoh’s added crushproof rating and deeper waterproofing make it a superior choice for truly demanding conditions - think climbing, desert, or winter sports. Nikon covers most risks but lacks crushproof, reducing trust when gear undergoes extreme forces regularly.

Freezeproof capabilities are similar - helpful for mountain photographers unlikely to face camera failures from cold snaps.

Shooting Disciplines: How Do They Stack Up Across Genres?

To build a full picture, I tested Nikon AW110 and Ricoh WG-5 GPS across key photography disciplines that rugged compacts often target: portrait, landscape, wildlife, sports, street, macro, night, video, and travel. Referencing sample images gives a concrete feel for capabilities.

Nikon AW110 front Nikon AW110 screen back Ricoh WG 5 GPS front Ricoh WG 5 GPS screen back

Portrait Photography

• Nikon AW110: The longer zoom lens offers nice framing options. Face detection works but without eye-detection or selective AF, skin tones sometimes come out flat due to modest sensor dynamic range.
• Ricoh WG-5 GPS: Better at isolating subjects thanks to faster lens and continuous AF. Skin tones render more natural, and bokeh - while limited by sensor size - is smoother from the f/2.0 aperture.

Ricoh is the better choice if portrait quality matters beyond snapshots.

Landscape Photography

• Both pull off surprisingly detailed daylight landscapes. Nikon’s slightly longer reach aids framing distant vistas, but Ricoh’s superior dynamic range (helped by bracketing features) means better highlight and shadow retention.

Neither has weather sealing to pro-levels, but both withstand rain and sand well. I prefer Ricoh’s broader ISO range and manual shutter priority option useful for creative landscape exposures.

Wildlife & Sports Photography

• Ricoh’s faster continuous shooting at 14 fps and continuous autofocus outperforms Nikon’s 8 fps and single AF mode.
• Nikon’s longer zoom helps reach distant animals, yet Ricoh balances reach with speed and focus accuracy.

Action shooters will find Ricoh WG-5 GPS notably more competent.

Street Photography

• Nikon AW110’s smaller size and lighter weight make it slightly less obtrusive for candid shots.
• Ricoh fares well but is marginally less discrete due to bulkier frame and louder mechanical sounds.

Considering image quality at low light, Ricoh edges ahead here with acceptable noise and sharpness.

Macro Photography

• Both offer 1cm macro focusing, but Ricoh’s closer minimum focus distance combined with sensor-shift stabilization delivered sharper close-ups yet with some focus hunting.
• Nikon’s image stabilization helped hand-holding but struggles with narrow depth of field.

If macro work is a priority, Ricoh slightly outperforms.

Night and Astro Photography

• Ricoh excels at higher native ISO (up to 6400) versus Nikon’s 1600 limit - critical for astrophotography.
• Nikon’s slower aperture and limited ISO mean star and night shots lack clarity.
• Ricoh also benefits from exposure bracketing enhancing night sky detail.

Night shooters will appreciate Ricoh WG-5’s edge here.

Video Capabilities

• Both capture Full HD at 30p with H.264 encoding.
• Ricoh adds 720p at 60p for smoother slow-mo.
• Neither has external mic or headphone jacks, limiting audio control.
• Nikon offers optical image stabilization; Ricoh’s sensor-shift stabilization is more effective for handheld video.

Neither is a pro video tool, but Ricoh offers a more versatile package for casual vlogging and adventure documentation.

Travel Photography

• Battery life: Nikon slightly leads with 250 shots vs Ricoh’s 240.
• Nikon’s smaller size wins on packing convenience; Ricoh’s robust build favors tough itineraries.
• GPS inclusion on both adds valuable geotagging for travel logs.
• Ricoh’s timelapse feature and manual exposure modes enhance creative travel shooting.

Both are well-suited for travel enthusiasts but cater to slightly different priorities within that realm.

Professional Usage

• Neither support RAW formats, limiting professional post-processing workflows.
• Both rely on JPEG outputs with in-camera processing.
• Nikon’s simpler controls may deter professionals needing granular exposure or focus management.
• Ricoh offers shutter priority and exposure bracketing - tools better aligned with pro shooters, albeit constrained by sensor size.

Ultimately, neither is a professional workhorse, but Ricoh’s flexibility makes it a more serious secondary or travel backup.

Diving Deeper: Technical Specifications and Connectivity

The stark connectivity disparity is notable. Nikon’s Wi-Fi enables easier image transfer, increasingly relevant during travels and expeditions, while Ricoh trades off this convenience for a more rugged design.

Regarding battery systems, both cameras rely on proprietary packs less common than AA or rechargeable lithium-ion easily swapped on the fly. For long trips, carrying spares is essential.

How They Score: Overall and Genre-Specific Assessments

To quantify the nuanced differences, here’s how expert reviewers and my own hands-on testing converge in performance ratings:

Ricoh WG-5 GPS consistently outperforms Nikon AW110 in autofocus, image quality, and durability-critical categories - especially for action and low-light shooting. Nikon holds its own in portability and everyday snapshots.

Final Thoughts: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Nikon Coolpix AW110 shines for outdoors enthusiasts who want a functional, easy-to-use waterproof camera without spending a premium. Its lightweight compactness suits travel and casual adventures. However, its slower lens, limited autofocus, and lower maximum ISO mean it’s best suited for good lighting and moderate zoom requirements.

Ricoh WG-5 GPS is a stronger all-around rugged performer with genuinely superior optics, higher ISO capabilities, faster shooting, and enhanced environmental protection. Its better control layout and video features add appeal for serious hobbyists and pros seeking a durable backup camera. The $250 higher price reflects these advantages fairly.

Who Should Buy Nikon AW110?

• Budget-conscious outdoor photographers prioritizing portability
• Casual travel and family holiday snapping in varying conditions
• Users valuing built-in Wi-Fi for convenient sharing
• Less concerned with manual exposure or burst shooting speed

Who Should Buy Ricoh WG-5 GPS?

• Adventure photographers requiring tough, crushproof gear
• Those wanting superior low-light and fast-action performance
• Enthusiasts who appreciate manual control options and bracketing
• Travelers who prioritize ruggedness over minimalism
• Shooters needing better video capabilities alongside stills

Closing: Hands-on Learnings Matter

My days in the field with these two showed clearly how even similar spec compact rugged cameras can differ drastically in user experience and output. The Nikon AW110 remains an admirable entry-level tough camera for light to moderate use, while the Ricoh WG-5 GPS pushes the envelope for serious outdoor imaging.

Authentic testing across conditions - underwater, trails, cities, and night skies - is vital to understanding these tools beyond their spec sheets. Remember, rugged isn’t just about surviving; it’s about thriving creatively in unforgiving environments.

Selecting between these models hinges largely on your shooting style, required features, and budget. Hopefully, this exhaustive review illuminates the path toward the best fit for your photography adventures.

Happy shooting, wherever your passion takes you!