Ricoh GR II vs. Ricoh GXR Mount A12: A Hands-On Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

Having spent years extensively testing a broad range of digital cameras - from full-frame beasts to pocketable compacts - I’ve developed a keen eye for what distinguishes cameras beyond just the spec sheet. Today, I’m diving into a detailed comparison of two venerable Ricoh models from different eras and categories: the Ricoh GR II, a large sensor compact introduced in 2015, and the Ricoh GXR Mount A12, an entry-level mirrorless system camera released in 2011. Both pack APS-C sensors, but differ significantly in design, ergonomics, and versatility.

If you’re considering either of these cameras for your photography or just curious how an older modular mirrorless compares to a large sensor compact, this comparison offers real-world insights borne from hands-on shooting, lab testing, and image analysis. Let’s unpack their strengths, weaknesses, and which suits your particular style of photography.

First Impressions: Design and Ergonomics Matter

When you first hold the Ricoh GR II and GXR Mount A12 side by side, the physical size and handling style tell you a lot about their underlying philosophies.

The GR II is a quintessential street-photography-friendly compact, with a slim, unassuming body. Measuring 117 x 63 x 35 mm and weighing a featherlight 251g, it fits snugly in a jacket pocket or palm without drawing attention. The fixed 28mm equivalent lens with an f/2.8 aperture offers a moderately wide, versatile field of view common with street shooters.

Conversely, the GXR Mount A12, while still fairly compact, has a chunkier 120 x 70 x 45 mm profile and tips the scales at 370g. Its rangefinder-style mirrorless body exudes a more traditional camera feel, with a more substantial grip. You can sense it’s designed for users who want DSLR-level handling in a minimalist package. Unlike the GR II’s fixed lens, the GXR’s modular design means you can swap sensor-lens units, but here we’re focusing on the Mount A12 module with its fixed APS-C sensor and lens.

Holding both cameras confirms what I’ve found in my studio tests: the GR II is built for rapid, pocketable shooting with minimal fuss, whereas the GXR demands a more deliberate approach, leaning towards enthusiasts comfortable with classic rangefinder ergonomics.

Control Layout: Navigating the Interface

Ergonomics aren’t just about size - they hinge on how intuitive the controls feel during fast-paced shooting.

The Ricoh GR II features a minimalist top plate with essential dials - shutter speed, exposure compensation, and a programmable function button. These are all within easy thumb or finger reach, allowing quick adjustments without flipping through menus. However, the lack of a touchscreen and limited physical controls means novice users might find the interface a tad sparse, especially if you’re used to smartphone-like interfaces.

The GXR Mount A12 opts for even fewer physical controls on the top plate, sticking to functionality seen in rangefinder cameras. Its buttons and dials are tactile but fewer in number. Notably, the absence of a rear touchscreen or live view autofocus means you’re working mostly through the viewfinder or LCD - though its fixed 3-inch 920k-dot screen lags behind modern standards.

Between these two, the GR II’s control scheme is more user-friendly for quick shooting scenarios - something you’ll appreciate during street or travel photography. The GXR’s layout encourages thoughtful, deliberate shooting with fewer distractions.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of It All

Both cameras sport APS-C-sized CMOS sensors, but there are nuances worth noting that affect image quality, dynamic range, and ISO performance.

The Ricoh GR II packs a 16-megapixel APS-C sensor with a 23.7 x 15.7 mm footprint - offering a sweet spot between resolution and noise handling. Thanks to its GR Engine V processor, image quality benefits from good color reproduction (DxO Color Depth 23.6 bits) and dynamic range (13.7 EV), higher than many compacts in its class. Low-light ISO sensitivity is decent, supporting native ISO 100–25600 (though usable ranges are typically under 3200).

In comparison, the Ricoh GXR Mount A12 module houses a 12MP APS-C sensor measuring 23.6 x 15.7 mm. While lower resolution, the sensor offers respectable color depth and dynamic range for its age - although it lacks DxOMark benchmarking for direct comparison. The max native ISO tops out at 3200, reflecting sensor technology limitations relative to the GR II. Image files from the GXR tend to be softer at pixel-peeping levels due to fewer megapixels and older sensor tech.

Practically speaking, if you crave more resolution and superior dynamic range for landscapes or studio work, the GR II is the clear winner. That said, the GXR’s raw files still hold their own with careful post-processing and excel in delivering classic Ricoh color character.

LCD Displays and Viewfinders: Framing Your Shot

For composing and reviewing images, screens and viewfinders take center stage.

The GR II sports a bright 3-inch fixed LCD with 1.23 million dots - sharp and responsive but lacking touchscreen functionality. It serves well for live view framing and menu navigation, though some users may wish for touch AF and gesture controls available on newer models like the GR III. There’s no built-in viewfinder, but Ricoh offers an optional optical accessory.

The GXR’s 3-inch fixed LCD is a bit smaller and lower resolution at 920k dots. Critically, it lacks live view autofocus, and no electronic viewfinder is built in; optional EVFs are available but add bulk. The viewing experience here feels a bit dated, which may slow down framing and focus acquisition in bright outdoor conditions.

For street and travel photographers who rely on quick framing and reviewing, the GR II’s superior screen is more practical. Video shooters or still photographers accustomed to viewfinders might find the GXR’s setup less convenient out of the box.

Autofocus Performance: Precision and Speed

Autofocus can make or break your shooting experience, especially in genres like wildlife and sports where decisive focus is critical.

The Ricoh GR II uses a contrast-detection AF system with 9 focus points, supporting single, continuous, face detection, and tracking AF modes. While the lack of phase-detection AF can slow acquisition compared to newer hybrid systems, the GR II handles everyday focusing demands reasonably well given its compact form. In good light, AF is fairly snappy and accurate; in low light or backlit scenarios, it can struggle or hunt.

On the other hand, the GXR Mount A12 also relies solely on contrast-detection AF with no face or eye detection and lacks AF tracking. Its focusing feels slower and more deliberate, which aligns with the camera’s rangefinder-style user approach. For static subjects and considered compositions, this is workable, but it’s not suited for fast action or unpredictable subjects.

If you shoot wildlife, sports, or events where autofocus tracking and speed are essential, neither camera excels by modern standards, but the GR II edges ahead due to better tracking modes. For still photography or street snaps, both will suffice, with the GR II feeling less frustrating in follow-up shots.

Burst Shooting and Shutter Speeds: Capturing Motion

Continuous shooting velocity and shutter speed flexibility impact capturing decisive moments.

The Ricoh GR II offers a respectable 4 fps burst rate with mechanical shutter speeds ranging from 1/4000s to 30s, but no silent or electronic shutter options, so it’s limited in capturing ultra-fast sequences or silent operation - a drawback in some discreet situations.

The GXR Mount A12 has a slightly slower 3 fps rate but offers an extended shutter speed range from 1s to 1/9000s, useful for freezing motion under bright conditions. However, it lacks burst buffering capacity for extended shooting.

Given these specs, the GR II is better for shooting sequences in street or travel contexts, while the GXR’s faster shutter speeds appeal to photographers chasing bright-day fast action shots, albeit with slower burst capability.

Lens and Accessories Ecosystem: How Flexible Are They?

The GR II’s fixed 28mm f/2.8 lens is sharp, with excellent corner-to-corner performance, great for landscapes, street, and environmental portraits. However, it offers no zoom or interchangeable options.

The GXR system’s main selling point is modularity: sensor-and-lens units can be swapped, though the Mount A12 module fixes you with a specific APS-C sensor and lens combo here. The GXR line supports different focal lengths and lens types, making it uniquely adaptable if you want to experiment or upgrade later - but this also means additional expense and complexity.

If you want plug-and-play simplicity with superb optics in a pocketable package, the GR II’s fixed lens shines. For photographers who want to tinker or expand glass options down the line, the GXR modular design could be a tempting foundation - albeit one now somewhat dated.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing: Ready for the Elements?

Neither camera offers weather sealing, dustproofing, or ruggedization, so neither is ideal for extreme outdoor conditions or professional fieldwork requiring high durability.

Both feel solidly built, with the GR II impressively lightweight but still durable, and the GXR more robust with a chunkier shell. However, if your photographic adventures take you hiking in rain or dusty environments, look elsewhere or invest in protective cases.

Video Capabilities: More Than Just Stills?

If video is a side priority, the two cameras contrast sharply.

The Ricoh GR II delivers Full HD 1080p video at 30, 25, and 24 fps with H.264 compression, plus HD modes up to 60p. While lacking 4K and external mic inputs, the GR II provides a capable entry-level video tool for handheld clips, vlogging, or casual recording, albeit without stabilization.

The GXR Mount A12 offers only 720p HD at 24 fps with Motion JPEG format - a dated codec resulting in larger, lower quality files - and no mic or headphone ports.

If video performance matters, the GR II is clearly the more modern and usable choice. For stills-focused shooters who only want basic clips, the GXR suffices.

Battery Life and Connectivity: Staying Power and Sharing

Both cameras use proprietary removable battery packs, with similar real-world battery life: about 320 shots for the GR II and 330 for the GXR, roughly standard for APS-C compacts.

Wireless connectivity separates them markedly: the GR II includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for instant sharing and remote shooting, a handy feature for today’s workflow. The GXR has no wireless modules, relying on USB and HDMI outputs only.

In my experience, wireless connectivity speeds up social media posting and tethered shooting; so if you want to integrate your camera into digital workflows, GR II is advantageous.

Price-to-Performance Value: What Do You Get for Your Money?

Considering launch prices and current used market realities:

• Ricoh GR II: Generally priced around $600 new originally, now available used for around $350-$400 depending on condition.

• Ricoh GXR Mount A12: Originally around $350, often found used below $200.

For a modest extra investment, you gain a newer sensor, better image quality, faster AF, full HD video, and wireless. The GXR delivers legacy modularity but at the cost of weaker AF performance, lower resolution, and dated video.

Real-World Photography Tests: Putting Them Through Their Paces

Here’s where extensive experience comes into play. I tested both cameras across key photography genres over multiple weeks to see how specs translate into results.

Ricoh GR II front Ricoh GR II screen back Ricoh GXR Mount A12 front Ricoh GXR Mount A12 screen back

• Portraits: The GR II’s 28mm field is wider than typical portraits, but its sharp lens renders skin textures cleanly without harsh bokeh - acceptable for environmental portraits. Its face detection autofocus helps nail focus on eyes. The GXR’s 12MP resolution softens fine details and lacks eye detection, so focus sometimes felt less reliable.

• Landscape: The GR II’s superior dynamic range reveals excellent shadow detail and highlight retention; landscape shots rendered with punchy color and crisp edges. Without weather sealing, cautious shooting is advised outdoors. The GXR performed competently but showed more noise in shadows and less overall pop.

• Wildlife/Sports: Neither camera is made for pro sports or fast wildlife. The GR II’s faster AF and burst gave it a slight edge, but 4 fps isn’t going to capture high-speed birds in flight. The GXR’s AF tracking is very limited, resulting in several missed shots.

• Street & Travel: The GR II’s compact size, low weight, discreet operation, and Wi-Fi make it an ideal candid shooter and traveler’s backup camera. The GXR is larger and less stealthy, though some will appreciate the rangefinder styling.

• Macro/Night: The GR II’s close-focus 10cm macro mode works well for flower and product shots; low-light shooting benefits from a wider aperture and better high ISO. The GXR's longer minimum ISO and slower lens limit these uses.

• Video: The GR II’s full HD modes and smooth autofocus lend it to casual filmmaking, travel videos, and social media clips. The GXR’s video feels dated and less practical.

Performance Ratings and Genre Analysis

After distilling lab measures and field experience:

• Image Quality: GR II – 80/100 | GXR – approx. 70/100 (estimate)
• Autofocus: GR II – Fairly responsive | GXR – Slow, less reliable
• Portability: GR II – Highly pocketable | GXR – Compact but thicker
• Video: GR II – Functional HD video | GXR – Basic, low-res

Breaking down by photographic disciplines paints a clearer picture:

• Portrait: GR II excels due to better AF and sensor
• Landscape: GR II leads with dynamic range
• Wildlife/Sports: Neither perfect, GR II marginally better
• Street: GR II preferred for discretion
• Macro: GR II better close focus
• Night/Astro: GR II’s ISO headroom beneficial
• Video: GR II far ahead
• Travel: GR II wins on size and connectivity
• Pro Work: Neither ideal for demanding pro shooters

Wrapping Up: Which Ricoh Fits Your Photography?

Both the Ricoh GR II and GXR Mount A12 have their own charm and set of capabilities, but they target somewhat different audiences.

Choose the Ricoh GR II if you:

• Need a highly portable, pocket-friendly camera for street, travel, and everyday photography
• Desire better image quality, dynamic range, and more intuitive autofocus
• Care about wireless connectivity and HD video functionality
• Appreciate a simplified fixed-lens camera with solid ergonomics
• Shoot moderately low light scenes and want crisp, sharp images

Choose the Ricoh GXR Mount A12 if you:

• Want to explore modular camera concepts with interchangeable sensor-lens units (beyond just this kit)
• Prefer a rangefinder-style camera body with a more substantial grip
• Budget is a major restriction and you’re okay with older tech and slower AF
• Primarily take static shots or landscapes without fast AF demands
• Are interested in a unique system camera off the beaten path

Final Thoughts

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed revisiting these Ricoh classics and putting my hands and eyes to the test. The GR II stands out as a compact powerhouse that punches above its class four years after launch, particularly for enthusiasts seeking killer portability combined with robust image quality. Meanwhile, the GXR Mount A12 tells an intriguing tale of modular versatility but ultimately feels a bit dated for everyday needs in 2024.

For serious photographers and enthusiasts scrutinizing their next camera, the GR II is simply the more practical, well-rounded choice. Now, if only Ricoh brings back a modular large sensor system with modern AF and ergonomics… Dear Ricoh, please?

If you’re interested in more detailed hands-on walkthroughs, lens tests, and image samples, feel free to check my in-depth video review linked above. I hope this comparison helps you decide confidently and capture beautiful images with whichever camera makes it home to your bag. Happy shooting!