Ricoh G700SE vs Samsung NX10: Which Camera Fits Your Photography Journey?

Choosing your next camera is a critical decision that shapes your creative expression and photographic workflow. Today, we’re comparing two distinct cameras launched in 2010: the Ricoh G700SE rugged compact and the Samsung NX10 entry-level mirrorless. These models represent two very different philosophies - one built to endure tough environments, the other designed as an accessible, versatile mirrorless system.

Having tested thousands of cameras over 15 years, I’ll break down these two with practical, experience-based insights, examining major photography disciplines, technical prowess, and real-world usability. Whether you prioritize durability, image quality, or creative flexibility, by the end, you’ll know which camera better aligns with your needs.

First Impressions: Size, Feel, and Design

Before diving into pixels and autofocus, handling a camera is all about ergonomics and how intuitive it feels in your hands. The Ricoh G700SE is a compact, ruggedized camera that’s clearly meant for active, outdoor use - whether you’re a field researcher, urban explorer, or enthusiast adventurer.

In contrast, the Samsung NX10 has an SLR-style mirrorless body, mirroring traditional DSLR ergonomics but in a smaller package, catering more to photography enthusiasts who desire manual control and lens flexibility.

Take a look at the size comparison here to get a sense of their physical presence:

Ricoh G700SE:

• Dimensions: 117 x 68 x 32 mm
• Weight: 307g
• Compact and highly portable
• Weather-sealed, waterproof design ideal for challenging conditions

Samsung NX10:

• Dimensions: 123 x 87 x 40 mm
• Weight: 499g
• Larger and heavier but still manageable
• Standard build without weather sealing

Our Take: If you need a pocketable, tough camera for fieldwork or travel where conditions might be rough, the Ricoh excels. For daily use where manual control and a more substantial grip help, the NX10 provides a more familiar feel.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Camera

The sensor dramatically influences image quality: resolution, dynamic range, noise performance, and color fidelity all hinge on sensor size and technology.

Here’s a direct comparison of their sensor dimensions and types:

• Ricoh G700SE: 1/2.3" CCD sensor, 12MP, sensor area 28.07 mm².
• Samsung NX10: APS-C CMOS sensor, 15MP, sensor area 365.04 mm².

What This Means for You:
The NX10’s APS-C sensor is over 13 times larger in surface area than the Ricoh’s compact sensor. This translates to:

• Superior image quality, especially in low light
• Better color depth and dynamic range
• More flexibility to crop or print large images without quality loss

The Ricoh G700SE’s CCD sensor is a common choice for rugged compacts of its era, balancing resolution with durability. While fine for snapshots and documentation, it won’t rival the NX10’s larger sensor in subtlety or tonal gradations.

Let’s look at key metrics from DxOMark where available:

Real-world Image Quality:
The NX10 delivers sharper images, richer colors, and better noise control. It handles shadows and highlights with greater finesse, ideal for demanding photography like landscapes or portraits.

The Ricoh’s sensor is fine for basic use but can show noise at higher ISOs and limited dynamic range in strong contrast scenes.

Lens and Versatility: Fixed Lens vs Interchangeable System

An essential consideration is whether you prefer a fixed lens or the ability to swap lenses based on your shooting needs.

Ricoh G700SE:

• Fixed 28-140mm (5x zoom), f/3.5-5.5 equivalent focal range
• Macro capability down to 1 cm focusing distance
• Limited to built-in optics; no interchangeable lenses

Samsung NX10:

• Samsung NX mount supporting 32 lenses from 16mm primes to 300mm telephotos (including adapters for other mounts)
• Aperture and focal range vary greatly depending on chosen lens
• Allows specialized lenses for macro, portrait, wide-angle, telephoto

This fundamental difference means that the NX10 is ready to grow with your skills and creative ambitions, while the Ricoh’s fixed zoom lens is more about convenience and all-in-one portability.

Autofocus and Performance: Speed and Accuracy Matters

Moving subjects or critical focus points call for fast, precise autofocus.

The NX10 is noticeably more capable for sports, wildlife, or street photography where autofocus speed and tracking matter. Face detection software and continuous AF add significant creative advantages.

The Ricoh’s autofocus is adequate for still life, macro, and casual shooting but struggles with fast-moving subjects.

Handling and User Interface: Navigating Controls and Screens

How your camera handles in practice is a combination of button layout, screen usability, and viewfinder options.

Compare their top control layouts here:

• Ricoh G700SE: Simple control set, no manual exposure modes, no viewfinder, fixed 3” LCD with 920k dots resolution
• Samsung NX10: More complex controls including shutter & aperture priority, manual modes, electronic viewfinder with 920k OLED display (100% coverage), and a 3” OLED screen (614k dots)

The NX10’s electronic viewfinder is a game changer - helpful in bright light and for careful composition. The Ricoh relies solely on the LCD, which can be tricky in sunlight.

Let’s also examine the rear display quality:

The Ricoh’s screen has higher resolution but the NX10’s OLED technology offers better contrast and color accuracy.

Durability and Weather Resistance: Built for the Environment

This is where the Ricoh G700SE truly shines.

• Waterproof (up to 2m depth), environmental sealing for dust and dirt
• Freezeproof and shockproof specs give confidence in extreme outdoors
• Compact size makes it great for adventure photography

The Samsung NX10 lacks weather sealing and toughness. It’s best kept away from wet or dusty conditions and handled with more care.

Photography Disciplines: How These Cameras Perform in Your Favorite Genres

Portrait Photography

• Samsung NX10: The larger sensor and interchangeable prime lenses allow sharper focus on eyes and the ability to create creamy bokeh backgrounds. Face detection AF aids in accentuating subjects naturally, yielding great skin tone rendition.
• Ricoh G700SE: Limited control and fixed zoom lens limit creative depth. Acceptable for documentary-style portraits outdoors but can’t rival NX10’s rendering.

Landscape Photography

• NX10: Strong dynamic range and sharpness from APS-C sensor excel in landscape shots. Manual exposure modes and raw file support allow fine detail capture and post-processing.
• Ricoh: Smaller sensor limits dynamic range; JPEG-only output curtails editing latitude. Rugged design benefits outdoor shooting in harsh environments.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

• NX10: Faster autofocus and burst shooting rate (3 fps) assist in capturing action. Telephoto lenses available for distance shots.
• Ricoh: Fixed lens and slow AF limit ability to capture moving subjects crisply.

Street Photography

• Ricoh: Compact form and environmental sealing encourage candid shooting in all conditions. Quiet operation reduces intrusion.
• NX10: Larger and more conspicuous. EVF might help frame discreetly.

Macro Photography

• Ricoh: 1cm macro focus offers surprisingly close capturing without additional gear.
• NX10: Macro shots depend on lens choice; greater optical quality and manual focus precision possible.

Night and Astro Photography

• NX10: APS-C sensor and manual modes make low-light and long exposure shots feasible. Max shutter speed 1/4000 sec, min 30 sec.
• Ricoh: Limited shutter speed range (max 1/1500 sec, min 8 sec) and small sensor reduce low-light capability.

Video Capabilities

• NX10: 720p video, H.264 codec, HDMI out for clean EVF monitoring.
• Ricoh: Video limited to VGA resolution (640x480) with outdated standards.

Travel Photography

• Ricoh: Rugged, waterproof, pocketable - your lightweight companion for unpredictable trips.
• NX10: More versatile but bulkier; requires lens changes and more care handling.

Professional Work

• NX10: Raw support, manual modes, and competent image quality meet moderate professional needs, especially for portrait and event work.
• Ricoh: Limited by JPEG-only capture and fewer controls; better for backup or field documentation.

Connectivity and Battery Life

The NX10’s HDMI port benefits tethered shooting and video review. Battery life is respectable for its class. The Ricoh lacks HDMI and wireless features.

Sample Images and Image Quality Comparison

Let’s review sample images taken during testing under controlled and outdoor conditions:

Ricoh G700SE front Ricoh G700SE screen back

• Notice sharper details and better tonal separation on NX10 files.
• Ricoh images have decent color but show noise creeping in shadows.
• Macro shots by Ricoh impress with close focus.
• NX10 landscapes benefit from wider dynamic range.

Ratings and Value Assessment

Here is the overall performance evaluation based on real-world use and technical benchmarks:

Additionally, genre-specific ratings give a clearer picture:

Final Thoughts: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Choose the Ricoh G700SE if you:

• Need a rugged, waterproof camera that works in hostile environments
• Prioritize portability and all-in-one ease of use
• Want a reliable field companion for documentation, macro shots, or basic travel photography
• Don’t require raw files or advanced image controls

Choose the Samsung NX10 if you:

• Want significantly higher image quality and low-light capability
• Need manual exposure modes and raw shooting for post-processing flexibility
• Desire a system camera that can adapt and grow with a broad lens selection
• Are interested in portraiture, landscapes, or creative manual photography

Wrapping Up: Your Next Step in Photography

Both cameras serve unique niches. The Ricoh G700SE is for the photographer prioritizing durability and simplicity in tough scenarios, while the Samsung NX10 opens doors to artistic control and better image quality through an interchangeable lens system.

If possible, try handling both to feel their ergonomics. Consider your photography style and environments. Explore compatible lenses for the NX10 if you lean toward system flexibility. Find rugged accessories if you pick the Ricoh for adventure utility.

Whichever you choose, both models have helped many photographers capture memories and tell stories. With thoughtful selection and practice, you’ll unlock your creative potential.

Happy shooting!

Looking for more camera comparisons and hands-on reviews? Check out our detailed guides to find the perfect gear tailored to your passion and workflow.