Panasonic LX100 II vs Ricoh WG-30W: A Hands-On Comparison for the Serious Photographer

Whether you’re a budding enthusiast or a seasoned professional seeking a reliable second camera, choosing the right compact is key to unlocking creative potential. Two cameras from very different corners of the market, the Panasonic Lumix DC-LX100 II and the Ricoh WG-30W, both promise convenience and portability - but with very different audiences in mind.

In this detailed comparison, we break down how these two compacts stand up in terms of features, performance, and real-world use across photography types and genres. Having personally put thousands of cameras through their paces, we bring you clear insights about what each of these models really offers.

Size, Design, and Usability: Find Your Hands-On Fit

One of the first considerations is physical ergonomics. The Panasonic LX100 II is a large sensor compact, designed for photographers who want DSLR-like control without the bulk. The Ricoh WG-30W, on the other hand, is a rugged waterproof compact built for adventure and durability.

Let’s compare their dimensions visually:

• Panasonic LX100 II: Measuring 115x66x64mm and weighing 392g, it feels solid and substantial in the hand, with a DSLR-style grip and finely tuned button layout for quick access to manual controls.
• Ricoh WG-30W: At 123x62x30mm and just 194g, it’s smaller and lighter. Its body is more compact and rugged, designed to withstand harsh conditions rather than provide extensive manual input.

Now, turning the cameras over for a look at the layout of controls:

• The Panasonic’s top plate features clearly marked dials for shutter speed, exposure compensation, aperture, and a hot shoe for external flash, catering to photographers familiar with manual exposure modes.
• The Ricoh is simpler, with fewer dedicated controls, reflecting its focus on durability and straightforward point-and-shoot use.

Ergonomics Winner: Panasonic LX100 II - For tactile manual control and a comfortable grip during extended shoots.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Arguably the most critical area when comparing cameras is image quality, primarily dictated by sensor size and technology.

Here’s a snapshot of the two sensors:

• Panasonic LX100 II: Uses a Four Thirds 17MP CMOS sensor (17.3 x 13 mm), significantly larger than most compacts, enabling better dynamic range, color depth, and high ISO performance.
• Ricoh WG-30W: Sports a much smaller 1/2.3-inch 16MP CMOS sensor (6.17 x 4.55 mm) typical of rugged compacts, which limits noise control and dynamic range in challenging lighting.

From our lab and field testing:

The LX100 II’s larger sensor means cleaner images at higher ISO, better bokeh control, and more finely detailed RAW files for post-processing. The WG-30W’s sensor size and lack of RAW limit it mostly to casual snapshots, especially in demanding environments.

Display and Viewfinder: Composing Your Shot

Your interface with the camera influences ease of use and creative control.

Take a look at the rear displays:

• Panasonic LX100 II features a 3-inch fixed touchscreen with 1240k dots resolution, offering precise touch AF control, menu navigation, and image review.
• Ricoh WG-30W has a smaller 2.7-inch non-touch TFT screen with 230k dots, more basic but practical for underwater or rough conditions.

The LX100 II also has a high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) - 2760k dots, 0.7x magnification - essential for bright daylight shooting and manual focusing. The Ricoh lacks a viewfinder entirely.

Interface Winner: Panasonic LX100 II - The EVF and touchscreen combo enhances compositional precision and workflow flexibility.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Speed and Accuracy on Demand

When it comes to capturing decisive moments, autofocus speed and tracking ability count.

• Panasonic LX100 II uses a contrast-detection autofocus system with 49 points, including face detection, eye detection, and continuous AF tracking. Our experience shows it’s responsive and reliable for portraits and general photography but not as fast as modern phase-detection systems.
• Ricoh WG-30W features 9 AF points with contrast detection and face detection but lacks touch-to-focus and advanced tracking. Its 1 fps continuous shooting rate makes it unsuitable for action-heavy scenarios.

Burst mode test:

You’ll find the Panasonic capable of sports and wildlife sequences to some extent; the Ricoh is better suited to slower-paced shooting.

Photography Styles: Which Camera Excels Where?

Portrait Photography

• Panasonic LX100 II offers fast lens apertures (f/1.7–2.8) enabling creamy bokeh and shallow depth of field to isolate subjects beautifully.
• Eye and face detection AF ensure sharp eyes - essential for compelling portraits.
• In contrast, the Ricoh WG-30W has narrower apertures (f/3.5–5.5), making background separation difficult, and its AF system is basic.

Landscape Photography

• LX100 II’s large sensor provides impressive dynamic range, capturing rich details in shadows and highlights.
• 17MP resolution is adequate for large prints and cropping.
• The WG-30W’s smaller sensor and 16MP resolution offer decent detail in good light but limited dynamic range.
• Panasonic’s lack of weather sealing means cautious use outdoors, while the WG-30W is built tough, waterproof and freezeproof.

Wildlife & Sports Photography

• Panasonic’s 11 fps shooting and AF tracking can handle moderate action.
• Ricoh’s single shot focus and slow shooting limit it severely here.
• Telephoto reach: Ricoh offers 28–140 mm but narrow aperture; Panasonic’s 24–75mm faster lens is lower zoom but better optical quality.

Street Photography

• Ricoh WG-30W’s compactness and ruggedness make it ideal for street, especially in inclement weather.
• Panasonic is larger and more conspicuous; however, its silent electronic shutter mode allows discreet captures.

Macro Photography

• Ricoh allows focusing down to 1cm - good for close-ups.
• Panasonic is 3cm macro capable but benefits from superior bokeh for artistic effect.

Night and Astro Photography

• Panasonic’s high ISO range and large sensor offer significantly better low-light capabilities.
• Ricoh produces noisy images above ISO 800, limiting night use.

Video Capabilities

• Panasonic supports 4K UHD video at 30p, with 100 Mbps bitrate, offering professional-grade quality.
• Ricoh is limited to 1080p at 30p.
• Neither has microphone or headphone ports, but Panasonic’s 4K is a standout for hybrid shooters.

Travel Photography

• Ricoh’s waterproofing, dust, shock, crush, and freezeproofing makes it perfect for rugged travel.
• Panasonic’s image quality and manual controls suit city and landscape travel but require careful handling.

Professional Work

• Panasonic offers RAW shooting, manual exposure controls, and a full suite of options suitable for professional workflows.
• Ricoh does not support RAW, limiting post-processing flexibility.

We’ve summarized the performance across genres below:

Build Quality and Weather Resistance: Durability Matters

The Ricoh’s rugged build caters to photographers who need a camera that can take a beating without worry. The Panasonic, while sturdy and well-built, is more delicate.

Battery Life and Storage: Staying Powered on the Go

• Panasonic’s battery life rates around 340 shots per charge, respectable but average for compact large-sensor cameras.
• Ricoh WG-30W roughly 300 shots per charge, competitive given its fewer power-draining features.
• Both use SD card storage; Panasonic supports fast UHS-I cards.
• Panasonic charges via USB with a DMW-BLE9 battery; Ricoh uses model D-LI92, charged externally or via USB 2.0.

Connectivity and Extras

Panasonic edges ahead for wireless convenience and live image transfer, a big plus for social media or remote control. The Ricoh’s digital image stabilization works acceptably but can lead to some softening.

Price and Value: Where Does Your Investment Pay Off?

• Panasonic LX100 II typically retails near $998, positioned as a premium compact bridge camera.
• Ricoh WG-30W retails around $280, emphasizing rugged, waterproof affordability.

For the price difference, Panasonic delivers far more in image quality, control, and versatility, while Ricoh focuses on durability and ease of use in extreme environments.

Sample Images Reveal Real-World Quality

Let’s look at image samples that expose practical differences:

Panasonic LX100 II front Panasonic LX100 II screen back Ricoh WG 30W front Ricoh WG 30W screen back

• Note Panasonic’s superior depth, dynamic range, and sharpness.
• Ricoh images hold up well under bright light but lose detail and exhibit noise in shadows.

Overall Performance Ratings: How Do They Stack Up?

The balanced numbers from our testing represent combined image quality and usability:

• Panasonic LX100 II scores highly for image quality, features, and shooting performance.
• Ricoh WG-30W scores for ruggedness and affordability but falls behind otherwise.

Who Should Choose Which Camera?

Opt for the Panasonic LX100 II if you:

• Desire near-DSLR image quality in a compact form.
• Want advanced manual controls and external flash support.
• Shoot portraits, landscapes, and video with professional aspirations.
• Need reliable autofocus and face/eye detection.
• Prioritize 4K video and interactive touchscreen usability.
• Are willing to invest in superior optics and sensor performance.

Opt for the Ricoh WG-30W if you:

• Need a tough, waterproof camera for hiking, snorkeling, or adverse weather.
• Prefer simplicity and point-and-shoot functionality.
• Have a limited budget but want durable performance.
• Shoot in demanding environments where camera damage is a risk.
• Want a lightweight carry-anywhere camera without complex features.

Final Thoughts: Amplify Your Creative Journey

In sum, the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II and Ricoh WG-30W cater to vastly different needs and user profiles.

• The LX100 II is a powerhouse compact blending versatility and image quality with hands-on control. Whether you’re photographing portraits with smooth bokeh, stunning landscapes with wide dynamic range, or 4K video, it’s a camera designed to fuel your creativity at a professional level.

• Meanwhile, the WG-30W is a specialist tool built to survive and deliver during outdoor adventures. Its ruggedness and waterproof design are its strongest suits, ideal for capturing memories where other cameras fear to tread.

We recommend trying both in-person if possible. Consider what you value: uncompromising image quality and control, or rugged reliability and ease of use. Both have important roles in your photographic toolkit, depending on the journey you’re on.

Don’t hesitate to explore compatible lenses, accessories like external flashes (especially for Panasonic), or protective cases (for Panasonic as well), that will extend either camera’s potential.

Ready to take the next step?

• Check out the Panasonic LX100 II for creative control and stunning image quality.
• Explore the Ricoh WG-30W if durability and simplicity top your priority list.

No matter which direction you choose, these cameras serve as gateways to new photographic experiences. Get started, experiment, and let your vision come to life.

Happy shooting!