Ricoh CX5 vs Sigma DP2x: An In-Depth Camera Comparison From Experience

Choosing the right camera is never simple, especially when models like the Ricoh CX5 and Sigma DP2x present very different approaches under the same 2011 banner. Both cameras target compact shooters but through radically distinct designs and philosophies. Over years of hands-on testing across hundreds of gear iterations, I've developed a keen sense of how such differences translate into real-life image quality, handling, and usability.

In this article, I’ll peel back the specs and scratch beneath the surface to offer insights you won’t find in your average spec sheet comparison. From sensor technology to autofocus performance, from landscape to wildlife shooting, we’ll cover everything photographers care about - so you can confidently decide which camera suits your style and needs.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Handling

Right out of the gate, the Ricoh CX5 and Sigma DP2x impress via very different routes. The Ricoh CX5 fits squarely in the "superzoom compact" niche with a sprawling 28-300mm equivalent lens, built for versatility in a pocket-friendly 102×59×29mm chassis. Meanwhile, the Sigma DP2x is a much chunkier APS-C compact with a fixed 41mm (equiv.) prime lens, focusing heavily on image quality at the expense of zoom capability and size.

The Ricoh’s sleeker profile feels closer to a point-and-shoot; ergonomics place a premium on simplicity but with some manual control options sprinkled in. The Sigma feels more like a pocket DSLR alternative: it’s thicker, heavier (280 grams vs 205 grams), and demands intentional handling over grab-and-go convenience. Both lack electronic viewfinders, and instead rely on rear LCDs for composition - the CX5's marginally larger 3-inch screen wins here (though neither has touchscreen or articulated displays).

The Sigma’s sturdier build feels solid - though neither camera features weather sealing or ruggedized protections. Its heft lends some balance when shooting handheld with that fast 41mm prime, but all-day carrying favors the slimmer Ricoh.

Design and Control Layout: Finding Your Workflow Sweet Spot

Beyond size, control layout heavily impacts user experience, especially for enthusiasts who lean on manual settings or need quick access to functions. Here’s where the Ricoh CX5 shines with its thoughtfully minimalist top plate and controls, yet at times the simplified layout can feel limiting.

The Ricoh's top deck is clean and approachable - ideal for beginners or those wanting basic manual options without fuss. The versatile zoom lever dovetails naturally with a compact grip. Conversely, the Sigma DP2x presents a more DSLR-inspired layout, including dedicated dials for shutter speed and aperture priority modes. This appeals to photographers who prefer hands-on, tactile adjustments. Sigma’s less ‘consumer’ style menu system and physical dials reward those who enjoy precision exposure control, though newcomers may find it steeper to learn.

I particularly appreciate Sigma’s inclusion of external flash support, absent on the Ricoh - allowing more creative lighting possibilities despite both cameras housing a pop-up flash with limited range (~4 meters).

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Where Sigma’s APS-C Sensor Takes Center Stage

Now to the heart of the matter: image quality. The Ricoh CX5 sports a 1/2.3” 10MP CMOS sensor with a 28.07 mm² imaging area, characteristic of superzoom compact cameras prioritizing zoom range and size over resolution finesse. The Sigma DP2x, however, features a much larger APS-C sensor (20.7 x 13.8 mm, 285.66 mm² area), more than 10x the size of Ricoh's sensor surface, leveraging Sigma’s proprietary Foveon X3 technology which captures color information across three layers rather than a Bayer filter array.

From extensive testing, it's clear the Sigma excels in color depth, tonality, and dynamic range - rendering images with a richness impossible for smaller-sensor compacts. Its native resolution sits at 5MP but due to the Foveon sensor’s design, it delivers a unique quality of detail, often outperforming Bayer-based 10MP sensors in sharpness and fine textures. Ricoh’s sensor, while capable in good light, reveals increased noise and limited dynamic range as ISO climbs - typical downsides when working with compact superzooms.

I find the Sigma’s RAW support notable, enabling advanced post-processing and workflow integration desired by pros and serious enthusiasts. The Ricoh CX5 does not support RAW, limiting flexibility but simplifying the shooting process.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Speed Meets Precision – or Not?

Both cameras rely on contrast-detection autofocus, with no phase-detect on sensor. The Ricoh CX5 offers five frames per second burst shooting with auto and manual focus modes, edging out the Sigma which caps at a more modest 3 FPS. However, Sigma compensates with more precise AF control, aided by the fixed prime lens optimized for sharpness rather than zooming through focal lengths.

One notable limitation of both is the absence of face or eye detection AF, no continuous autofocus tracking, or animal eye autofocus - a considerable downside for wildlife or sports photographers who rely on these technologies today.

While using these cameras in the field, I noticed the Sigma requires more deliberate focus acquisition, with slower AF in low light conditions, yet the site-to-site precision often produces tack-sharp images once locked in. The Ricoh’s AF feels quicker, favoring speed over pinpoint accuracy, which aligns with its superzoom use cases.

LCD and Interface: Visual Feedback When Composing

Neither camera offers electronic viewfinders, so the rear LCDs serve as the only framing tool. The Ricoh CX5’s 3-inch screen pushes ahead with a 920k-dot resolution, bright and reasonably sharp, better suited for outdoor use or composition scrutiny. The Sigma’s 2.5-inch LCD, with a lower 230k-dot resolution, feels noticeably dated and less precise in bright daylight.

The Ricoh’s live view mode benefits from the larger, clearer screen, which certainly eases macro and telephoto framing. However, neither display supports touchscreen controls, so navigating menus and adjusting settings requires button presses and dial twists - a balanced tradeoff in favor of physical command over intuitiveness.

Photography Versatility: Which Camera Shines in Each Genre?

Let’s break down practical use cases across important photography disciplines.

Portrait Photography: Skin Tones and Bokeh Quality

For portraits, Sigma’s APS-C Foveon sensor delivers more accurate skin tones and luscious, natural gradations thanks to its color capture technology. The fixed 41mm f/ (approx. f/2.8 equivalent) prime lens produces a pleasant background blur, essential for subject isolation.

Ricoh’s superzoom lens (28-300mm equivalent) provides more range, useful for distant candid portraits or environmental context shots but lacks the shallow depth-of-field charm of the Sigma. Ricoh’s maximum aperture of f/3.5-5.6 means bokeh is limited unless zoomed telephoto, and even then, results are milder due to sensor size.

Neither camera features eye detection autofocus, which is a – but the Sigma’s better image quality often compensates in this genre.

Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range and Resolution

Landscape shooters will appreciate Sigma’s larger sensor area and superior dynamic range, recovering shadows and highlights with greater fidelity during editing. Its 3:2 native aspect ratio aligns better with standard photo printing and panoramic compositions.

The Ricoh’s 4:3 aspect ratio and smaller sensor size make landscapes somewhat constrained in detail and tonal gradation. Dynamic range is noticeably more limited, especially under challenging lighting where shadows can block out.

Both lack weather sealing, so care is needed shooting outdoors in adverse conditions.

Wildlife Photography: Autofocus Speed and Telephoto Reach

Here, Ricoh CX5’s 28-300mm zoom and 5 FPS burst rate give it a clear edge. The ability to reach out telephoto, combined with stabilization and faster focus, helps capture moving subjects in diverse venues.

Sigma’s fixed 41mm prime lens with slower AF and 3 FPS burst rate forces photographers to physically approach subjects - a potential limitation in wildlife scenarios. Sigma’s precision autofocus benefits stationary nature photography but lacks agility for rapid subject acquisition.

Sports Photography: Tracking and Low Light Performance

Neither camera is designed with sports photography in mind. In low light, Sigma’s larger sensor and ISO range promise better noise control. However, lack of continuous AF and face tracking inhibits success photographing fast-moving athletes.

Ricoh’s faster shutter speeds and continuous shooting mechanics allow more frames per second but suffer from image softness and increased noise in dim environments due to smaller sensor.

Street Photography: Discreet Portability and Low Light

Ricoh’s smaller size is an asset for discreet street shooting, easily stowed and quick to deploy with zoom flexibility ideal for spontaneous shots.

Sigma’s chunkier body demands more attention and time to compose but rewards with higher image quality. The fixed 41mm focal length is a classic street focal length, enabling natural perspective, though the camera’s slower responsiveness may miss fleeting moments.

Neither camera has particularly strong low-light autofocusing or built-in image stabilization (Sigma lacks stabilization altogether), meaning careful exposure management is necessary.

Macro Photography: Close Focusing and Stabilization

Ricoh’s impressive macro capability - focusing as close as 1cm - is a boon for flower and detail photography. Its sensor-shift stabilization also helps in hand-held macro work where even slight movement ruins shots.

Sigma does not list a macro focus range or stabilization, placing it behind Ricoh in this sub-specialty.

Night and Astrophotography: High ISO and Exposure Control

Sigma’s larger sensor excels here with cleaner high-ISO performance and ability to recover shadow detail. The camera supports shutter and aperture priority exposure modes, which help in night scenes.

Ricoh offers manual exposure but lacks the bulb mode or long exposures beneficial for astrophotography. Its smaller sensor means more noise at elevated ISOs.

Video Recording: Modest Capabilities for Casual Use

Both cameras offer limited video modes, with Ricoh supporting 720p HD at 30fps and Sigma restricted to QVGA 320x240 resolution - more of a novelty than anything professional.

No external microphone or headphone ports are present, and neither features in-body stabilization for video. If video is important, neither camera stands out.

Travel Photography: Versatility Versus Image Quality Tradeoff

The Ricoh CX5, with its slim profile, extensive zoom range, and impressively close macro focusing, suits travelers who want a single versatile tool without hauling extra lenses. Battery life and storage options (SD/SDHC compatibility) are standard.

The Sigma DP2x offers higher image quality and a unique color science but demands exercise in packing and patience in use. A dedicated enthusiast or professional might pack it as a second or street camera.

Professional Use and Workflow Integration

Sigma’s RAW support and tighter exposure control enable integration with professional workflows, while Ricoh’s JPEG-only output and simpler features lean towards casual or enthusiast-level applications.

Neither camera offers wireless features (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth), modern connectivity (HDMI), or durable environmental sealing - limitations to note for professionals.

Technical Breakdown and Connectivity

Image Quality in Practice: A Side-by-Side Look

To encapsulate everything we've discussed, here are samples from both cameras under varied conditions. The Sigma’s images display richer colors and crisper details, especially in controlled lighting and RAW post-processing. Ricoh delivers usable, punchy results with more flexibility thanks to the zoom, but image quality is generally softer.

Ricoh CX5 front Ricoh CX5 screen back Sigma DP2x screen back

Overall Performance Scores

Considering all aspects - sensor quality, ergonomics, autofocus, and features - our comprehensive evaluations rate each camera accordingly.

Strengths by Photography Genre

This table breaks down each camera’s suitability for specific genres, highlighting where each excels.

Which Camera Should You Pick?

Choose the Ricoh CX5 if:

• You want an all-in-one, lightweight travel companion with wide zoom range.
• You prioritize ease of use and versatile focal lengths.
• You occasionally shoot macro and benefit from effective image stabilization.
• Budget is a concern but you still want decent manual controls and exposure options.

Choose the Sigma DP2x if:

• Image quality and color fidelity trump zoom flexibility.
• You appreciate manual exposure control and RAW workflow.
• You are a serious enthusiast or professional seeking a premium large-sensor compact.
• You shoot primarily portraits, landscapes, or still subjects where detail fidelity is key.

Final Thoughts: Personal Experience and Recommendations

Throughout my extensive testing - putting these cameras through portrait sessions, landscape treks, and street walks - it's clear these cameras serve different masteries. The Ricoh CX5 acts as a versatile Swiss Army knife, accommodating a variety of intents through its zoom and stabilization. The Sigma DP2x, in contrast, is a precision instrument, rewarding care and technique with superior image quality unparalleled by most large sensor compacts of its time.

Neither camera is cutting-edge by today’s standards, but both retain value for enthusiasts who appreciate their respective strengths. Your choice hinges heavily on priorities: if you want one camera to do many things reasonably well, lean Ricoh; if you want distinguished image quality in a pocketable form and are willing to adapt your shooting style, Sigma is well worth the premium.

When selecting your next camera, factor in not just specs but also personality, shooting style, and post-processing aspirations. That’s the genuine expertise I’ve gained from thousands of camera shootouts - and the advice I offer you here today.

For further questions or specific scenario tests, feel free to reach out. I’m always eager to help fellow photographers find their perfect match in the ever-evolving world of digital imaging.