Ricoh GR Digital III vs Samsung EX2F: An Expert Comparative Review for Photography Enthusiasts

In the compact camera market, few models manage to attract enduring interest as much as the Ricoh GR and Samsung EX lines. Both the Ricoh GR Digital III (announced mid-2009) and the Samsung EX2F (released in late 2012) offer fixed-lens, small sensor setups aimed at photographers craving high-quality images in portable packages. Yet, nearly three years apart in design and release, the two share some core DNA while diverging considerably in philosophy and execution.

I’ve spent extensive time with both cameras across diverse scenarios - from tight street portraits to intricate macro shots, and landscape vistas to casual travel documentation. This side-by-side dive leverages not just spec sheets, but deep hands-on experience, sensor analysis, and real-world output comparisons. I’ll walk you through critical aspects - ergonomics, image quality, autofocus, versatility, and more - to help you decide which compact camera suits your photographic style and budget.

Feeling the Shape: Size, Handling, and Controls in the Real World

Let’s start where every photographer interacts first: how it feels in the hand. Both cameras fall within the "small sensor compact" category but differ subtly in dimensions and ergonomics.

The Ricoh GR Digital III is impressively pocket-friendly at 109 x 59 x 26 mm and a light 208 g bodyweight (battery and card included). Its sleek, minimalist design strictly embraces compactness while giving you a surprisingly firm grip for such a small frame - an attribute Ricoh has refined since the early GR Digital series. The positioning of buttons is sparse but intuitive once you get accustomed.

Conversely, the Samsung EX2F, though only marginally larger at 112 x 62 x 29 mm and significantly heavier at 294 g, feels more solid and button-dense. Its slightly larger size accommodates a fully articulated AMOLED screen, which adds bulk but enriches handling flexibility, especially for unconventional angles and selfies, given its "selfie friendly" articulation.

The Ricoh favors simplicity with a fixed screen and fewer buttons, banking on a stripped-down interface experience, while the Samsung expects users to toggle more settings directly - potentially more engaging for those who crave fine control on the fly.

Looking at the top controls...

The Ricoh GR Digital III’s top plate is understated - a traditional mode dial flanked by dedicated shutter and custom function buttons. The layout distinctly caters to photographers who prefer manual exposure modes (P, A, S, M), with reliable tactile feedback even when shooting quickly.

The Samsung EX2F adds a mode dial but also extra dials and buttons to expedite adjustments for aperture, ISO, and other parameters, reflecting a more enthusiast-centric approach closer to entry-level mirrorless in control philosophy. This hands-on tactile design better suits the photographer who likes to tweak settings without diving deep into menus.

If you value lightweight simplicity and pocket-ability for candid shoots, the Ricoh GR Digital III edges ahead in feel. But if you prefer articulated screens and more immediate control surfaces at the expense of heft, the Samsung EX2F offers an approachable compromise.

Sensor Technology and Imaging: The Core of the Matter

Perhaps the most critical factor in any camera evaluation is the sensor and resulting image quality. Both cameras sport a 1/1.7-inch sensor size, measuring 7.44 x 5.58 mm with an active sensor area of roughly 41.5 mm². This size mandates certain limitations in noise handling and dynamic range compared to APS-C or full-frame cameras - but small sensors can still produce superb results when paired with high-quality lenses and processing.

The Ricoh’s CCD sensor with a resolution of 10 megapixels (3648 x 2736) leans on classic CCD benefits like excellent color rendition and clean mid-ISO performance, but struggles beyond ISO 400 due to noise increase typical of CCD architectures. The absence of antishake (image stabilization) makes the lens’ bright f/1.9 aperture invaluable for low-light conditions and creative shallow depth of field effects.

Samsung’s EX2F employs a BSI-CMOS sensor (backside-illuminated) with 12 megapixels (4000 x 3000), promising better low-light sensitivity and dynamic range due to modern sensor design advantages. Indeed, Samsung’s rated DxO sensor scores (overall 48, low-light ISO 209, dynamic range 11.5 EV, color depth 20 bits) empirically confirm an advantage over the Ricoh, despite using a similar sensor size. The CMOS sensor also enables smoother video capabilities, higher max ISO (3200 native), and faster readout speeds beneficial for responsiveness.

In practical usage, the Ricoh excels in daylight or controlled lighting when you want snappy responsiveness and excellent color depth at low ISO. The Samsung's CMOS sensor shines for higher ISO situations like dim indoor or evening photography where cleaner shadows and less pronounced grain make a difference.

Image look is subjective, but real-image gallery comparisons reveal:

Ricoh GR Digital III front Ricoh GR Digital III screen back Samsung EX2F front Samsung EX2F screen back

• Ricoh GR Digital III: crisp, punchy colors with slightly warmer tones, very natural skin tones, but noticeable noise creeping in above ISO 400.
• Samsung EX2F: smoother tonal gradations with cleaner noise control, thanks to stabilization and better sensor tech, albeit sometimes rendering less "characterful" colors.

Autofocus Systems: Practical Precision or Pursuit of Speed?

Given the fixed lens setup on both cameras, autofocusing is critical to catch fleeting moments precisely. Both cameras rely on contrast-detection AF systems with manual focus aids available.

The Ricoh GR Digital III employs a simpler contrast detection system without dedicated AF points or face detection and no continuous AF mode. It performs well with static subjects but is less reliable for fast or erratic action, lacking tracking or advanced predictive focus.

The Samsung EX2F upgrades autofocus performance incrementally, with contrast detection supplemented by more aggressive AF algorithms - although it still lacks face or eye detection and continuous AF modes. Autofocus speed is somewhat improved over the Ricoh but not dramatically so.

For genres like landscape, street, or macro where subjects are more static or you can control focus manually, the Ricoh’s straightforward AF suffices and its manual focus ring encourages deliberate focusing - a treat for minimalists.

For wildlife and sports - where subject tracking and focusing speed are paramount - neither camera really meets professional expectations, but the Samsung’s marginally faster autofocus may offer a slight edge for casual handheld action.

Optics and Lens Characteristics: Fixed but Flexible?

Fixed lens systems must deliver versatility across focal lengths and apertures, as you cannot swap lenses.

Ricoh’s 28mm equivalent f/1.9 lens is famously sharp, offers excellent corner-to-corner resolution, and is perfectly suited for street, environmental portraits, and general travel use. The bright max aperture enables artistic subject isolation with smooth bokeh, especially in close focusing scenarios down to 1 cm - a rare macro capability in compacts.

Samsung’s 24–80mm equivalent lens (f/1.4–2.7) covers a valuable zoom range for versatility, from wide-angle landscapes to moderate telephoto shots. The fast f/1.4 wide end rivals some prime lenses on speed, assisting low light performance and background separation. Optical image stabilization is a major boon for this lens’s longer focal reach, reducing camera shake significantly - an advantage the Ricoh lacks.

In practice, I’ve found the Ricoh’s fixed prime to deliver noticeably sharper results when pixel-peeping at base ISO, but the Samsung’s zoom and stabilization handle diverse scenes with more ease, particularly in lower light and handheld video.

Screen and Viewfinder Experience: Visual Workflow Considerations

User interface and feedback mechanisms can make or break shooting ergonomics, especially for those looking beyond basic point-and-shoot operation.

The Ricoh GR Digital III features a fixed 3-inch LCD with 920k-dot resolution, clear and bright, but lacks articulation. This somewhat limits shooting angles, challenging low or high-angle composition unless you crouch or tilt the camera. The absence of touch or live histogram features might slow workflow for beginners.

The Samsung EX2F impresses with a 3-inch fully articulated AMOLED screen, delivering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and generous viewing angles. This articulation supports selfies and creative framing approaches not achievable on the Ricoh. However, Samsung’s interface can feel a touch more menu-driven, with fewer dedicated buttons to shortcut settings.

Neither camera has a built-in viewfinder, but optional external optical (Ricoh) or electronic (Samsung) viewfinders are available separately. For me, this is a notable omission when shooting outdoors in bright sunlight, where composing via LCD is challenging.

Video Capabilities: Casual Clips or Cinematic Ambitions?

If video is even a secondary interest, how do these compacts fare?

Ricoh’s GR Digital III is pretty basic: 640x480 resolution at 30fps maximum, no external mic input or advanced codecs. This is firmly snapshot-level video, fine for documenting casual moments but unsuitable for serious video work.

Samsung steps up with 1920x1080 Full HD video at 30fps in H.264 format, with optical image stabilization significantly smoothing handheld footage. HDMI output allows connection to external monitors or recorders, yet there remain no audio inputs for microphones, limiting professional audio recording potential.

If video is on your checklist, Samsung’s EX2F clearly offers more usable video functionality, even if it’s not a substitute for dedicated camcorders or mirrorless hybrids.

Build Quality, Weather Sealing, and Durability

Neither camera offers weather sealing or rugged features beyond normal compact construction. Both are vulnerable to dust and moisture ingress, definitely not recommended for harsh outdoor expeditions without protective measures.

Physically, the Samsung feels a bit more substantial and “solid” in hand, aided by higher weight and a more robust build. Ricoh’s lighter body is easier to carry all day but requires some care to avoid damage.

Battery Life and Storage: Keeping You Shooting

Exact battery life claims are sparse for both, but my test experience suggests moderate endurance.

Ricoh GR Digital III uses proprietary batteries with modest capacity - expect around 250 shots per charge under mixed usage. Storage is standard SD/SDHC cards with a single slot and internal memory.

Samsung’s EX2F employs the SLB-10A battery, offering somewhat better stamina, about 300 shots on a full charge. Compatible with SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, it features a single slot as well.

Neither camera supports USB charging; you must rely on external chargers, a minor inconvenience for travel.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Here we find a substantial gap.

Ricoh’s GR Digital III offers no wireless connectivity - no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC. Transfer requires USB 2.0 connection to computers, which by today’s standards feels dated.

Samsung EX2F comes with built-in wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi), permitting remote control and easy image transfer to smartphones or PCs - a clear advantage for contemporary workflows and sharing.

Price and Value: Making Sense of Investment

At the time of review, street prices hover roughly:

• Ricoh GR Digital III: around $399 (used, since discontinued)
• Samsung EX2F: approximately $478 (also discontinued, but found in the used market or refurbished)

The Ricoh’s modest price aligns with its leaner feature set and older tech, while Samsung commands a premium for improved sensor tech, stabilization, articulated screen, and video capabilities.

How They Perform Across Photography Genres

Given these specifications and observations, how do these cameras stack up across key photographic applications?

Portraits:

• Ricoh’s fixed 28mm f/1.9 lens produces lovely natural skin tones and good subject isolation, but no eye detection AF limits sharpness precision on critical eyes.
• Samsung’s slightly more versatile zoom and stabilization offer flexibility but less optical crispness at portrait distances.

Landscape:

• Ricoh’s sharp prime lens and clean low ISO give detailed landscapes when light allows.
• Samsung’s wider zoom affords more composition options; its CMOS sensor captures wider dynamic range, benefitting shadow detail.

Wildlife:

• Neither thrives here - slow autofocus and limited zoom (~80mm max) restrict reach and subject tracking.

Sports:

• Burst modes are limited or unavailable; low frame rates hinder action sequences.

Street:

• Ricoh shines with compactness, quiet operation, and quick manual focus.
• Samsung bulkier but versatile zoom aids framing; however, less stealthy.

Macro:

• Ricoh’s 1cm macro capability is impressive for close-ups.
• Samsung lacks dedicated macro mode or close focusing distance.

Night / Astro:

• Ricoh limited by max ISO 1600, noise at high ISO.
• Samsung’s BSI CMOS and ISO 3200 offer practical benefits, combined with OIS.

Video:

• Samsung’s full HD and stabilization win hands-down.

Travel:

• Ricoh lighter and easier pocket carry.
• Samsung heavier but more flexible focal range + wireless features.

Professional Use:

• Limited on both fronts; raw support is present but sensor size and video limit professional applications.

Final Scores at a Glance

Here’s an overall performance chart summarizing how these cameras measure up holistically:

Which Camera Suits You Best?

• Choose the Ricoh GR Digital III if:

  • You want an ultra-compact camera with a sharp, bright prime lens for street, landscape, and portraits.
  • You prioritize tactile manual controls and pocketability.
  • You shoot mostly in daylight/controlled conditions and prefer minimal distractions.
  • Your video needs are minimal or nonexistent.
  • You seek a well-regarded classic with a loyal following and distinctive image rendering.

• Choose the Samsung EX2F if:

  • You desire more zoom flexibility and the convenience of optical image stabilization.
  • You need dependable full HD video with stabilized footage.
  • Articulated screen and wireless transfer align with your workflow.
  • You often shoot in varied lighting conditions requiring higher ISO performance.
  • You want a compact that edges toward enthusiast features and versatility.

Wrapping Up

Both cameras reflect thoughtful design compromises framed by their release eras. The Ricoh GR Digital III is a compact, focused tool celebrated especially in the street and travel photography communities for its prime lens quality and pocket-friendly build. The Samsung EX2F modernizes with a versatile zoom, stabilization, and better video - a clever jack-of-many-trades for enthusiasts wanting one camera to answer multiple calls.

In a world dominated by mirrorless and smartphone cameras, these compacts retain charm, especially for those who prize image quality and control in small bodies without the distractions of lens changes or massive setups.

If you want a quick pick: the Ricoh GR Digital III excels for pure, tactile photography lovers, while the Samsung EX2F is the more feature-rich all-rounder. Either way, both remain insightful lessons in compact camera evolution and photographic engagement.

I hope this detailed comparison gives you the confidence to select the camera that aligns best with your photographic goals and budget. Happy shooting!