Ricoh CX1 vs Samsung SL202: Pick the Compact That Suits Your Photography Journey

Choosing your next camera, especially within the compact segment, means balancing features, handling, and image quality against the budget. Today, we dive deep into two small sensor compacts announced around the same time in 2009 - the Ricoh CX1 and the Samsung SL202 (known as the PL50 in some regions). Though both target casual photographers craving pocketable versatility, their design philosophies and technical choices make them unique contenders.

Having tested thousands of cameras myself over 15 years, I’ll walk you through their strengths and weaknesses across key photography types, real-world usability, and technical specs. By the end, you’ll find clear recommendations tailored to your needs.

Compact Cameras in Perspective: Why Sensor Size Matters

Both models use a 1/2.3" sensor size, roughly 6.1 x 4.5 mm, common among compact cameras of that era. This size inherently limits image quality compared to APS-C or full-frame sensors but helps keep the camera pocket-friendly.

• Ricoh CX1 features a 9-megapixel CMOS sensor.
• Samsung SL202 sports a slightly higher-res 10-megapixel CCD sensor.

The Ricoh’s CMOS sensor benefits from a generally more efficient electronic design, improving autofocus speed and video capabilities. The Samsung’s CCD sensor produces subjectively warmer tones but typically consumes more power and limits video frame rates.

If you prioritize snappier AF and better video, the CX1 edges ahead on sensor technology despite the slightly lower megapixel count.

First Impressions: Ergonomics and Controls That Shape Your Experience

For many photographers, handling is a make-or-break factor. The Ricoh CX1 weighs 180g and measures 102 x 58 x 28 mm. Meanwhile, the Samsung SL202 is a bit lighter and smaller at 168g and 92 x 61 x 23 mm.

• The Ricoh’s slightly larger size lends itself to a more substantial grip, beneficial for steady shooting, especially in macro and telephoto.
• The Samsung is super compact and light, making it easy to slip into pockets or small bags, perfect for casual street shooting or travel.

From our thorough testing, larger-bodied compacts often feel more comfortable during extended shoots, but if absolute portability is your priority, the SL202 corresponds well.

Both cameras have fixed lenses, no interchangeable setups, so your versatility relies on zoom range and aperture.

A Closer Look Over the Top: Control Layout and Interface Usability

Efficiency in the heat of the moment comes down to how quickly your fingers find buttons you need.

• Ricoh CX1 has a straightforward top layout focused on smooth operation but lacks a dedicated command dial for aperture or shutter priority modes - these modes aren’t even supported.
• Samsung SL202 also keeps it simple but offers more flexible autofocus area selections including face detection, giving you more hands-on control during composition.

Touchscreen is absent on both, typical for their segment and release period, so tactile buttons and dials remain your main tools. Ricoh’s emphasis on physical buttons for common settings helps once you acclimate to the layout.

Visual Feedback: LCD Screen and Viewfinder Comparison

Neither camera has an electronic viewfinder, which shifts all framing responsibility to their rear LCD displays.

• Ricoh CX1 features a 3-inch screen with a 920k-dot resolution, providing a crisp, bright live view.
• Samsung SL202 sports a smaller 2.7-inch screen at 230k dots, quite dimmer with less detail.

The CX1's display makes manual focusing and framing easier, crucial for macro, precise street compositions, and night shots. SL202’s smaller screen is less impressive but still usable outdoors in shade.

Lens Ranges: Flexibility in Focal Length and Aperture

• Ricoh CX1: 28-200mm equivalent zoom (7.1x), aperture f/3.3-5.2
• Samsung SL202: 28-102mm equivalent zoom (3.6x), aperture f/2.8-5.7

The Ricoh’s longer zoom is ideal if you want to capture wildlife or distant street scenes without swapping lenses - noteworthy for a compact. The Samsung shines with a faster wide-aperture f/2.8 at the wide end, better for low light and portrait blurring.

If you photograph outdoors and travel light, Ricoh’s zoom range is a standout advantage. For low-light-focused portrait or street photography, Samsung’s brighter lens gives a marginal edge.

Autofocus Capabilities and Speed: Critical for Capturing the Moment

Both rely on contrast-detection autofocus systems, but…

• The Ricoh CX1 offers single AF mode only, with decent speed aided by the CMOS sensor and Smooth Imaging Engine IV processor.
• The Samsung SL202 supports face detection and multi-point AF areas, giving you more options and generally faster lock-on for people shots.

However, neither camera offers continuous autofocus or tracking, limiting their effectiveness for fast action or wildlife. Still, the Samsung’s face detect AF aids everyday portraits.

Image Stabilization and Burst Shooting – Can You Freeze the Action?

• Ricoh CX1 includes sensor-shift image stabilization, which helps with handheld shots, especially at longer focal lengths or macro distances.
• Samsung SL202 has no image stabilization.

Neither camera supports continuous burst shooting modes. Their shutter speeds max out at 1/2000s (CX1) and 1/1500s (SL202), good but nothing extraordinary.

For handheld shooting versatility, the Ricoh’s stabilization is a serious bonus for crisp photos at telephoto lengths and slower shutter speeds.

Image Quality and Real-World Performance: Colors, Noise, and Detail

We compared sample shots from both in controlled tests and natural light conditions.

Ricoh CX1 front Ricoh CX1 screen back Samsung SL202 front Samsung SL202 screen back

Key takeaways:

• Color reproduction: Samsung’s CCD sensor provides warmer skin tones and slightly richer colors; Ricoh renders more neutral and natural hues.
• Noise handling: Ricoh’s CMOS sensor manages noise better at ISO 400-800, providing cleaner images in dimmer settings.
• Detail: Both cameras capture moderate detail, but Samsung’s higher megapixel count results in marginally sharper crops under ideal lighting.
• Dynamic range: Both struggle with highlights; neither camera does well with high-contrast scenes typical in landscape shooting.

For portrait shooters, Samsung has an edge in pleasing skin tones but Ricoh’s noise control benefits low-light situations.

Video Recording: Not a Spotlight Feature But Worth a Look

Video specs:

• Ricoh CX1: 640 x 480 at 30fps, Motion JPEG format.
• Samsung SL202: maximum 640 x 480 at 30fps, but also offers 800 x 592 at 20fps.

Neither shines as a video machine; resolutions are low and lack modern features like HD or 4K recording, microphone inputs, or stabilization beyond Ricoh's IS.

If video is a casual add-on, both do fine. For serious video work, you'll want to look elsewhere.

Battery Life and Storage: How Long Can You Shoot?

Neither camera publishes official battery life, but older reviews and field tests indicate moderate endurance.

• Ricoh CX1 uses DB-70 battery
• Samsung SL202 uses SLB-10A battery

Both accept SD/SDHC cards for storage, with the Samsung supporting SD, SDHC, and MMC. Internal memory is minimal on both, making memory card investment necessary.

Build Quality and Durability: Ready for the Road?

Neither camera offers weather sealing or rugged protection. They’re classic compact cameras meant primarily for casual use, safe in mild conditions but vulnerable to rain or dust.

If you shoot landscapes, travel, or street in varying weather, consider accessories or protective cases.

Pricing and Value: What Does Your Investment Get You?

• Ricoh CX1 priced around $299 at launch.
• Samsung SL202 more budget-friendly at about $140.

Given their feature sets, the Ricoh justifies its price with longer zoom, image stabilization, a better LCD screen, and CMOS sensor advantages.

Samsung offers decent portrait capabilities and some autofocus flexibility at a wallet-friendly price.

How Do They Perform Across Photography Disciplines?

Let’s match camera strengths and weaknesses to popular photography styles:

Overall Performance Ratings: A Closer Summary

Our detailed testing benchmarks scored the cameras moderately well for their class, with Ricoh outperforming in key areas.

Ricoh CX1 leads in build quality, image stabilization, zoom range, and LCD experience. Samsung SL202 impresses with portability and autofocus aids like face detection but suffers from weaker lens reach and no IS.

Wrapping It Up: Making the Smart Choice for Your Needs

Both the Ricoh CX1 and Samsung SL202 are quintessential compact cameras from the late 2000s, offering you easy point-and-shoot operation with modest image quality.

Choose the Ricoh CX1 if you:

• Need longer zoom reach (28-200mm) for telephoto needs
• Want image stabilization for sharper handheld pictures
• Value a larger, higher-resolution LCD screen for applying composition and manual focus
• Prefer slightly better low-light performance with its CMOS sensor
• Don’t mind a slightly larger body and higher price for extra versatility

Go with the Samsung SL202 if you:

• Prioritize ultra-light, pocket-friendly size and simplicity
• Want faster lens aperture at wide angles (F2.8) for casual low-light shooting
• Appreciate face detection autofocus to help with portraits and group shots
• Are budget-conscious but want decent image quality and strong color rendition
• Prefer a mild telephoto zoom (only to 102mm) and accept no image stabilization

Getting the Most Out of Your Camera: Tips and Accessory Suggestions

Whichever model you choose, keep in mind:

• Use an SDHC memory card with fast write speeds for quicker shot-to-shot times.
• Consider an extra battery to avoid interruptions on day-long shoots.
• A small tripod or tabletop stand is invaluable for macro and night shots, especially on non-stabilized models like the SL202.
• Explore the manual white balance feature to customize color cast for your environment.
• Experiment with macro mode on the Ricoh for exquisite details down to 1cm distance.

Final Thoughts: Embrace Your Creative Path

Starting with either camera, you can explore fundamental photography principles: composition, exposure balance, and post-processing basics. While these compacts don’t boast pro-grade specs, they exemplify how accessible photography can be even with entry-level kit.

Don’t let gear limitations hold you back. These cameras help you build confidence and sharpen your eye, whether on city streets, lush landscapes, or portrait sessions with loved ones.

Try both models hands-on if you can, and see which form factor and controls feel more intuitive to you. After that, dive into practice and enjoy capturing moments your own way.

Ready to explore compact photography? Check out local stores or online retailers to try the Ricoh CX1 and Samsung SL202. Find the accessories that fit your lifestyle, and start your creative journey today!