Ricoh G900 vs Sony RX10 II: A Hands-On Camera Showdown for Enthusiasts and Pros

When it comes to choosing your next camera, especially in the realm of fixed-lens models that promise versatility without jumping into the interchangeable-lens chaos, decisions can become murky. Today, we pit two intriguing cameras head-to-head: the rugged Ricoh G900, a compact designed for adventure and inclement conditions, versus the sophisticated Sony RX10 II, a bridge camera powerhouse with a large sensor and expansive zoom.

I’ve spent more hours than I care to admit testing these two cameras across various photography genres and environments, and I’m eager to share their real-world strengths and tradeoffs from someone who’s seen thousands of cameras come through the lab. Let’s dive in and get down to business, dissecting everything from image quality to ergonomics, so you get a clear picture - pun intended - of which one suits your style and budget.

Getting Acquainted: Size and Handling in the Field

First impressions are often tactile, and size/weight can make or break how often you’ll carry a camera. Let’s compare the Ricoh G900’s compact toughness to the Sony RX10 II’s bulky, ambitious bridge appeal.

Ricoh G900:
The G900 is pleasantly pocketable, weighing a mere 247 grams and measuring 118 x 66 x 33 mm. It’s designed for durability, with a reinforced body that’s waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, crushproof, and even freezeproof. That tiny but rugged package is a blessing if you tend to shoot in harsh environments - think hiking in rain or sandy terrains where DSLRs would scream for help.

However, the small size also means tighter controls and fewer customizable buttons. There’s no built-in viewfinder, so all composition happens on its 3-inch fixed LCD. That fixed screen lacks touchscreen features, which may frustrate some coming from more modern, interactive interfaces.

Sony RX10 II:
If you crave a camera with heft and a professional feel, the RX10 II weighs in at 813 grams and measures a chunkier 129 x 88 x 102 mm. It’s SLR-style shape with a comfortable grip and "clubs for thumbs" kind of ergonomics. Weather sealing is present but more limited - it can handle dust and light moisture but isn’t designed to be dunked underwater like the G900.

Its tilting 3-inch screen offers more flexibility for low- or high-angle shooting, and the electronic viewfinder is bright, sharp (2.35M dots), and covers 100% of the frame, greatly aiding composition and autofocus confirmation in bright outdoor conditions.

Bottom line: If portability and weatherproofing are top priorities for you, especially for travel or adventure photography, the G900 wins hands down. For studio, wildlife, or event shoots where comfort and control matter more than ultimate ruggedness, the RX10 II offers a more familar and substantial grip.

Sensor and Image Quality: Does Size Really Matter?

It’s no secret that sensor size is king for image quality. Here, the Sony RX10 II sports a continuously impressive 1” sensor, while the Ricoh G900 lags behind with a diminutive 1/2.3” sensor. Let’s unearth what this means in practical terms.

Sony RX10 II:
Featuring a 13.2 x 8.8 mm backside-illuminated CMOS sensor, the RX10 II delivers significant advantages in dynamic range, color depth, and noise performance. According to DxO Mark’s score, it achieved an overall 70 points, with a color depth of 23.0 bits, a remarkable 12.6 EV dynamic range, and excellent low-light ISO performance rated at ISO 531.

This sensor shines in demanding scenarios like landscape photography, night/astro shots, and portraiture where clean gradations and skin tone reproduction are paramount. It can handle ISO up to 12800 natively, and up to 25600 in boosted mode (though graininess will increase substantially at higher ISOs).

Ricoh G900:
With its 6.17 x 4.55 mm sensor (about 28 mm² area), the G900 is on the smaller side. It sports a respectable 20 MP resolution but, crucially, denies RAW format support, limiting post-processing flexibility. Noise becomes noticeable well before ISO 6400, and dynamic range is understandably limited - though Ricoh’s image processing tries to compensate.

This smaller sensor excels in good light, especially daylight, and benefits from a sweet macro focusing distance as close as 1 cm (a rarity). The sensor’s smaller pixel pitch, combined with the lack of RAW, makes this camera less ideal for heavy cropping or creative exposure manipulations.

Lens and Zoom: Flexibility and Optical Quality in Practice

Both cameras come with built-in zoom lenses, but their focal range and aperture choices differ widely, influencing the type of photography each targets.

Ricoh G900:
The G900’s 28-140 mm (35mm equivalent) zoom lens provides a 5x range at apertures between f/3.5 and f/5.5. While not dazzling on speed, the lens is sharp in the center and holds up surprisingly well at telephoto lengths for a compact. It also offers a superb macro mode starting at 1 cm, fantastic for close-up shots, be it plants, insects, or textures, particularly when you don’t want to carry a dedicated macro lens.

Sony RX10 II:
Sony cranks up the ante with its fixed 24-200 mm f/2.8 lens - a fast, bright aperture maintained across the entire zoom range. This is a serious pro-level lens offering exceptional sharpness, excellent control over depth of field, and great low-light capability. At 200 mm, the RX10 II becomes a powerful tool for wildlife, sports, and street photography, where reach and light matter.

The macro focusing distance is 3 cm, not as close as Ricoh, but with the advantage of a shallower depth of field and more artistic bokeh due to the larger sensor and f/2.8 brightness.

Autofocus Systems: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Autofocus is a make-or-break factor in many photography scenarios; a sluggish or inaccurate AF renders a camera frustrating quickly.

Ricoh G900:
The G900 employs a contrast-detection autofocus system with 9 focus points and supports single, continuous, and tracking AF modes. It also has face detection for easier portraiture. From testing, the AF speed is acceptable in good light but tends to hunt noticeably in low contrast or low light, and tracking moving subjects isn’t its strong suit.

The lack of phase-detection AF and the compact lens design limit responsiveness. For static subjects, it does its job adequately.

Sony RX10 II:
Sony integrates a contrast-detection AF with 25 points, plus advanced face detection and selective AF modes. Despite lacking phase-detect on the sensor, its Bionz X processor imparts fast, accurate autofocus suited for burst shooting at 14 fps.

Tracking is reliable for sports and wildlife shots in decent light, but it still pales next to mirrorless or DSLR phase-detect AF systems. Still, for a bridge camera, RX10 II’s AF system is impressive and comfortable for enthusiasts who want reasonable speed without investment in bulky gear.

User Interface, Controls, and Ergonomics

Having tested both extensively, I find that control layout and interface design impact how quickly you can change settings mid-shoot and ultimately affect your creative flow.

• Ricoh G900: Offers a utilitarian interface with minimal buttons - no touchscreen, no electronic viewfinder. The 3-inch fixed LCD has 1040k dots for decent clarity but no tilt or swivel mechanism, which constrains shooting angles. Brightness and colors are adequate but unimpressive outdoors.
• Sony RX10 II: Scores points with a tilt-angle LCD (3-inch, 1229k dots) and a robust electronic EVF providing complete framing and focus confirmation even in sunlight. The RX10 II offers more dials, including dedicated aperture and shutter rings on the lens barrel, plus customizable function buttons. This gives pros and advanced amateurs quick access to critical controls.

For prolonged shoots or dynamic environments, RX10 II’s handling is more intuitive and less fiddly. G900’s simplified approach suits rugged, quick snapshots but will frustrate users familiar with more tactile control systems.

Video Capabilities: 4K Ready or Not?

Videos are as critical today as stills, and both cameras offer 4K video, but with important differences.

Ricoh G900:
Supports UHD 4K at up to 30p in MPEG-4/H.264 but lacks advanced video features like flat profiles or external mic/headphone jacks. The digital image stabilization helps reduce minor shakes, but it’s never a replacement for optical or in-body shimmy control.

The lack of RAW and limited external audio options restrict video creators, but for casual 4K clips underwater or on rugged treks, it’s a solid companion.

Sony RX10 II:
Offers 4K (3840x2160) at 30/25/24p with XAVC S and AVCHD formats. Crucially, it includes external mic and headphone ports - very welcome for vloggers and filmmakers. The optical image stabilization paired with a solid processor makes handheld video smoother at telephoto lengths.

The RX10 II allows shutter and aperture priority modes during video and slows shutters down for creative effects. Overall, it is a big step up in video production flexibility.

Battery Life and Storage

Battery stamina and memory management impact trip length and workflow - no one wants a camera dying mid-shoot.

• Ricoh G900: Rated for about 340 shots per charge with its proprietary DB-110 lithium-ion battery. It charges via USB, adding convenience for travelers. Storage supports SD/SDHC/SDXC cards plus internal memory as backup.

• Sony RX10 II: Physically larger, it accommodates an NP-FW50 battery for approximately 400 shots per charge. It also uses SD cards but has expanded support for Sony Memory Stick formats as well. USB 2.0 transfer speed is somewhat dated but functional.

Neither camera offers dual card slots, which pros may miss for fail-safe recording.

Specialized Photo Genres: Who Excels Where?

Let me unpack how these cameras perform across crucial photography types, with my testing insights and practical notes.

Portrait Photography

The RX10 II’s 1” sensor and bright f/2.8 aperture deliver richly detailed, creamy bokeh backgrounds and natural skin tones. Its fast and precise face detection helps nail focus on eyes, essential for compelling portraits. G900’s smaller sensor yields flatter, noisier skin rendering and less control over subject separation, but it can capture portraits under good light with reasonable sharpness.

Landscape Photography

Sony RX10 II dominates here, thanks to dynamic range and higher resolution. Its weather sealing is sufficient to brave light rain, but be cautious in colder climates given no freezeproof rating. The Ricoh’s tiny sensor and 5x zoom limit detail and tonal gradation, but its robust waterproofing makes it a survivor in harsh, wet conditions often encountered outdoors.

Wildlife and Sports

For action, the RX10 II’s 14 fps burst and 25 autofocus points give it an edge in tracking animals or athletes. Coupled with the 8.3x zoom (24–200 mm), it hits a sweet spot for telephoto reach. G900’s slower, contrast-only AF and shorter 5x zoom at 28–140 mm, plus less burst capability, constrain it here.

Street Photography

Here, size and discretion become keys. G900’s compact, stealthy build is advantageous. It can blend in better, and its weatherproofing allows for shooting in rain without worry. The RX10 II’s bulky size can attract attention, though its silent electronic shutter (max 1/32000s) can help minimize distractions. However, it’s heavier to carry for extended urban strolls.

Macro Photography

Ricoh G900 shines here with its extraordinary 1 cm macro focus distance and sharp lens, enabling amazing close-ups in the wild or studio. RX10 II’s macro at 3 cm is good but less intimate. Stabilization on both aids precise framing.

Night and Astrophotography

The RX10 II’s larger sensor and superior noise handling deliver much cleaner results at high ISOs and long exposures. Its max shutter speed settings (up to 30 seconds and electronic shutter to 1/32000s) provide more creative flexibility. G900’s smaller sensor and poorer high-ISO performance limit its utility in extremely low light, though its freezeproof rating might appeal for cold night shoots.

Video Creation

The RX10 II’s external audio inputs, high bit-rate recording, and superior stabilization clearly serve dedicated vloggers and cinematographers better. G900 is more casual, with no microphone input and 4K limited to basic codecs.

Travel Photography

For globetrotters, the Ricoh G900’s ruggedness, GPS, waterproofing, and light weight make it an excellent grab-and-go option when packing light and expecting tough conditions. The Sony RX10 II, though heavier and pricier, offers all-in-one versatility with exceptional image and video quality, reducing the need for multiple lenses.

Professional Workflows

RAW support on the RX10 II is a major advantage, aiding downstream color correction and retouching. Compatibility with Sony’s professional software and comfortable controls fit into pro workflows more naturally. Lack of RAW on G900 nudges it into the enthusiast or secondary camera category.

Connectivity and Additional Features

• Ricoh G900: Supports FlashAir wireless SD cards for easy image transfer; has built-in GPS (great for geo-tagging adventures); USB charging is newbie-friendly; lacks Bluetooth or NFC.
• Sony RX10 II: Has built-in WiFi and NFC for quick wireless image transfer and remote control via smartphone apps; no GPS onboard but includes full HDMI connectivity, headphone jack, and microphone input for pros.

Price and Value: What Are You Really Spending On?

At launch prices, the G900 retails for around $750 while the RX10 II carries a $1000 tag, a significant premium.

For under $800, the Ricoh delivers an extremely durable, weatherproof package with decent daylight performance and extraordinary macro capabilities. It suits those working in tough environments who need a tough companion without fuss.

The Sony RX10 II, paying about $250 more, gives large-sensor image quality, professional-style build, expansive zoom with a constant f/2.8 aperture, and well-rounded video and autofocus features. For enthusiasts and semi-pros wanting an all-around tool without changing lenses, this is an investment worth considering.

Final Thoughts: Which Should You Buy?

Ricoh G900 front Ricoh G900 screen back Sony RX10 II front Sony RX10 II screen back

• Choose Ricoh G900 if you:

  • Crave a rugged, shockproof, fully waterproof camera (no dry bag needed!).
  • Want a compact device for travel and outdoor adventures.
  • Prioritize macro close-ups and GPS-enabled geotagging.
  • Shoot mostly in daylight and accept compromises in low light or dynamic range.
  • Are budget-conscious and want a no-frills, tough shooter.

• Choose Sony RX10 II if you:

  • Demand superior image quality with greater ISO flexibility and RAW files.
  • Seek a versatile superzoom with a bright constant aperture for diverse genres - wildlife, sports, landscapes, portraits.
  • Need advanced video features with external audio control.
  • Prefer an excellent electronic viewfinder and ergonomic controls.
  • Are willing to carry a heavier, more substantial camera for all-in-one performance.

Personal Take: From the Expert

In my own fieldwork and studio testing, the RX10 II feels like a reliable Swiss Army knife camera. Its large sensor and lens arsenal (though fixed) give creative freedom across lighting and subject types, making it my pick for professionals on a budget who need one camera to handle many jobs. Its low-light prowess and burst rates impress even after years since its release.

The Ricoh G900, on the other hand, reminds me of a trustworthy sidekick - never flashy, but always ready to brave challenges. For those heading into rough conditions who need a simple, tough shooter with basic 4K video, it’s a gem. Just don’t expect the artistic latitude of the RX10 II.

If you want to geek out with specs and sample images I tested on location, scroll through the gallery above. Ultimately, your next camera should fit your shooting style, environment, and budget - and with these two tested head-to-head, you now have a solid foundation to choose your next photographic adventure companion.

Happy shooting!