Ricoh GR II vs Samsung GX-20

Choosing your next camera can feel like navigating a labyrinth - especially when faced with options that are so different yet appealing in their own ways. Today, I’m diving deep into a head-to-head between two intriguing cameras from quite distinct eras and philosophies: the Ricoh GR II, a large sensor compact powerhouse launched in 2015, and the Samsung GX-20, a mid-size DSLR from 2008 that carved its own niche in the advanced enthusiast segment.

Having extensively tested thousands of cameras over the years, including compact fixed-lens models and DSLRs, I’ll guide you through a comprehensive breakdown covering design, features, real-world performance, and value, across a broad spectrum of photographic disciplines. Whether you’re a traveler craving portability, a portraitist chasing perfect skin tones, or a hobbyist exploring astro photography, by the end you’ll have a clear sense which camera suits your style and workflow.

Let’s get started.

Size, Feel, and Ergonomics: Portability vs. Control

First impressions count, and the Ricoh GR II and Samsung GX-20 are night and day in their form factors. The GR II is a quintessential large sensor compact - pocket-friendly and unobtrusive - while the GX-20 is a heftier DSLR designed for the tactile experience enthusiasts appreciate.

Take a look:

At roughly 117 × 63 × 35 mm and a mere 251 grams, the GR II slips easily into a jacket pocket or small bag. Its minimalist design, however, can be divisive; there are fewer buttons and its fixed 28mm-equivalent lens means less on-the-fly focal length flexibility but exceptional convenience. Ricoh’s approach is purity - point, shoot, and rely on solid image quality without bulk.

Contrast that with the GX-20’s 142 × 101 × 72 mm and 800-gram frame, where the large grip and extensive physical controls reward handling precision but demand a dedicated camera bag. It’s a classic DSLR form factor, harking back to the days when every dial and button felt essential for serious photography.

If you’re often mobile and prioritize stealth or travel light, the GR II’s size and ergonomics will likely win your heart. DSLR purists and those who appreciate the feel of dedicated controls may gravitate toward the GX-20.

Design Philosophies on Top Deck: Controls in Focus

Digging deeper into the user interface, you’ll notice their approach to controls mirrors their form factor philosophies.

The GX-20’s top deck shows a traditional layout - mode dial, dedicated ISO button, shutter speed and exposure compensation dials - all tactile and swiftly accessible without diving into menus. This is especially appreciated during dynamic shooting scenarios like sports or wildlife, where speed counts.

The GR II’s top deck is minimalistic, with fewer physical controls and no dedicated ISO dial, relying more on customizable menus. While this keeps the design sleek, it also demands a bit more menu navigation, especially for beginners or those accustomed to manual dials.

In practical use, I found myself able to change settings more quickly on the GX-20 in fast-paced situations. Conversely, the GR II shines in street or travel photography where discretion and simplicity help keep you in the moment.

Peering Under the Hood: Sensor and Image Quality

When balancing two cameras from different generations, sensor technology forms the backbone of image quality. Both sport APS-C sensors, but with different resolutions and processing tech.

The Ricoh GR II utilizes a 16MP APS-C CMOS sensor (23.7 x 15.7 mm), paired with Ricoh’s GR Engine V processor. The inclusion of an anti-aliasing filter helps prevent moiré, though it softens images slightly - nothing a keen editor can’t handle. Thanks to its newer sensor and processing pipeline, the GR II boasts excellent color depth (DxOMark 23.6 bits) and dynamic range (~13.7 EV) compared to the GX-20.

The Samsung GX-20’s 15MP APS-C CMOS sensor (23.4 x 15.6 mm) reflects older sensor technology. While still respectable, it yields lower overall image quality scores on DxOMark (~68 overall, with dynamic range around 11.2 EV). Its maximum native ISO 3200 (expandable to 6400) trails the GR II’s 25600 max ISO, although the GX-20’s sensor stabilization (rare in DSLRs of its time) offers some compensation in low light.

In everyday shooting, GR II images deliver richer color and more retained detail in shadows and highlights. That said, the DSLR sensor’s images retain a pleasant rendering, especially when paired with quality Pentax K-mount glass.

Live View and Rear Screen Usability

Both cameras offer live view, but their rear screens tell different stories.

On the GR II, the 3-inch 1230k-dot LCD delivers bright, detailed image previews, crucial for manual focusing and composition in bright environments. Conversely, the GX-20’s smaller 2.7-inch LCD with only 230k-dot resolution feels archaic today, less suitable for critical focus checking.

Neither camera sports a touchscreen, consistent with their release periods and categories. The GR II’s interface is clean and simplified but sometimes requires menu diving for less-used settings. The GX-20’s interface is intentionally button-driven but can feel cumbersome given the less sharp display.

If you’re used to relying on the LCD for composition adjustments or reviewing images, the GR II will feel more natural and quicker for modern workflows.

Autofocus Systems: Precision vs. Speed

Autofocus is a critical topic, especially for move-intensive photography like wildlife or sports.

The GR II utilizes contrast-detection autofocus with 9 focus points and face detection, well suited for static subjects and street photography but slower and less accurate tracking in fast action.

The GX-20 offers an 11-point autofocus system with phase-detection sensors, typical of DSLRs, delivering better accuracy on moving subjects but lacks face or eye detection and continuous AF tracking modes. Its AF system can struggle in low light, but tends to perform better than the GR II in controlled burst shooting.

In my hands-on testing, the GX-20 gave more consistent focus on erratic subjects, while the GR II excelled in deliberate single-shot compositions. Burst rates (4 fps vs. 3 fps) are fairly similar, but neither camera suits high-speed sports pro levels.

Portrait and Bokeh Characteristics: The Art of Skin Tones

When portraiture is your passion, skin tone rendition and bokeh quality matter a lot.

The GR II’s fixed 28mm (equivalent) F2.8 lens offers modest background separation but struggles to deliver creamy bokeh compared to longer lenses. Its 16MP sensor reliably reproduces natural skin tones with smooth gradations, aided by Ricoh’s in-camera color processing.

The GX-20 depends on interchangeable Pentax K-mount lenses - worth noting that many legacy portrait primes at f/1.8 or wider apertures are available, providing superior subject isolation and artistic bokeh. The lower resolution sensor yields a classic DSLR portrait “look” with smoother noise characteristics at moderate ISO.

For formal portraits or studio work, the GX-20 combined with a fast prime lens gives you more creative freedom and image control. The GR II is better suited for environmental portraits or candid street shots where discretion and quick response matter.

Landscape and Resolution: From Mountains to Metropolis

Landscape shooters prioritize dynamic range, resolution, and ruggedness - how do our contenders fare?

The GR II boasts a decent 16MP resolution, excellent dynamic range allowing detail retention in highlights and shadows, and offers multiple aspect ratios including 1:1 and 4:3, which can inspire creative framing on location. Unfortunately, the lack of weather sealing limits use in harsh conditions.

The Samsung GX-20 slightly lags in sensor metrics but comes with environmental sealing uncommon for DSLRs in its class and era, adding peace of mind when shooting outdoors in rain or dust. Published resolution is close, a minor difference that won’t affect large prints under normal viewing.

Here’s a decisive note: the GR II’s lens is fixed wide-angle (28mm equivalent) - great for sweeping vistas but inflexible. GX-20 users can mount a wide array of focal lengths optimized for landscapes, enhancing composition possibilities.

Wildlife and Sports Photography: Autofocus, Speed, and Reach

If your heart races chasing fleeting wildlife or covering fast-paced sports, autofocus responsiveness, burst speed, and lens reach are pivotal.

Neither camera is tailored for professional-level action photography, but the GX-20’s DSLR AF phase detection system, broader lens options including telephoto zooms, and more ergonomic grip make it better equipped for these genres.

The GR II’s contrast AF, though accurate for static or slow movers, can lag on sudden subjects. Its fixed 28mm lens isn’t ideal for distant subjects but superb for environmental storytelling and close-in wildlife (insects, flowers).

Continuous shooting speeds hover around 3 to 4 fps, modest by modern standards but workable for occasional bursts.

Street Photography and Travel: Stealth, Discretion, and Convenience

Here is arguably where the GR II shines brightest, embodying the principles of street photography: small footprint, fast startup, silent mechanical shutter options, and a wide 28mm field of view aiding spontaneous candid capture.

Samsung GX-20’s size and weight demand a strap, a steady hand, and more intentional shooting. It won’t go unnoticed on the street, where discreet shooting can make or break moments.

Travel photographers often juggle equipment weight and versatility; again, the GR II’s compactness and lightweight design are major assets, combined with solid battery life (~320 shots per charge) and built-in Wi-Fi/NFC connectivity - a boon for quick sharing.

Macro and Close-up Work: Precision and Magnification

Both cameras support macro photography differently.

The GR II is notable for a close focusing distance of about 10 cm, granting respectable magnification with its 28mm lens. It though lacks focus stacking or dedicated macro modes, so results depend heavily on manual focus precision.

The GX-20 system’s advantage lies in interchanging macro-optimized lenses, giving more flexibility and higher magnification. Sensor-based stabilization (unusual for its time) helps handheld macro shots - a bonus the GR II lacks.

If macro work is a serious part of your repertoire, the GX-20 paired with a suitable lens might serve you better, though the GR II covers casual close-ups without additional gear.

Night and Astro Photography: High ISO and Exposure Control

Low-light performance puts sensor technology and noise reduction algorithms to the test.

Ricoh GR II’s higher native ISO ceiling (up to 25600) and improved DxO low-light scores suggest better noise control at higher ISOs. Its slowest shutter speed of 300 seconds offers creative long-exposure possibilities, vital for nightscapes or astro shooting.

The GX-20 maxes out at ISO 3200 (expandable 6400) and has a minimum shutter speed of 30 seconds – far shorter for extended exposures but workable with bulb mode if supported by third-party firmware or tethering.

Neither camera has modern in-body stabilization tailored for astro exposure, but the GR II’s faster image processor and better noise control help deliver cleaner night images.

Video Capabilities: Basic vs. None

Video is an increasingly important feature even for stills photographers.

The Ricoh GR II provides basic video recording capabilities up to 1080p 30fps in H.264 format. It lacks microphone/headphone inputs, 4K, or high-speed frame rates - no surprise for a compact designed chiefly for stills, but usable for casual video logs.

The Samsung GX-20 offers no video recording at all, reflecting its 2008 origin before live view and video integration was standard.

If video matters to you at all, the GR II takes a clear win here.

Professional Workflow and Reliability: File Support and Build

Both cameras shoot RAW, essential for professional workflows. The GR II supports Ricoh’s RAW format with 16MP files, and the GX-20 captures 15MP Pentax-compatible RAW files.

Build quality differs; the GX-20 benefits from partial weather sealing, adding durability - an important consideration for professional outdoor shoots. The GR II, though compact and solid, lacks any environmental protection, so care is required.

Battery info is sketchier for the GX-20, but GR II’s DB-65 battery comfortably delivers about 320 shots per charge - sufficient for a day’s casual shooting.

Connectivity and Storage: Modern Needs vs. Vintage Gear

When it comes to getting your images out of the camera, the GR II offers Wi-Fi and NFC, facilitating direct transfers to smartphones and tablets - huge for instant sharing or backup.

The GX-20, designed before wireless features became standard, has none, relying on USB 2.0 connections and SD/MMC card slots.

Each has a single memory card slot supporting SD/SDHC/SDXC formats, with the GX-20 extending compatibility to older MMC cards.

Price and Value: What Do You Get for Your Money?

At around $599 new (or current used market values), the Ricoh GR II provides a compact package with impressive image quality, decent handling, and modern connectivity at a reasonable price point.

The Samsung GX-20, priced higher originally (about $850) and only available used now, represents a bulkier, more traditional DSLR experience. Its value comes primarily through access to a mature Pentax KAF2 lens ecosystem, weather sealing, and a DSLR shooting feel.

Summarizing Strengths and Weaknesses

To wrap up my analysis, here’s a snapshot:

Below you can see the overall performance ratings and genre-specific scoring for both cameras, useful for a quick visual grasp:

Sample Image Comparisons - See for Yourself

Images illustrate how these differences translate practically: the Ricoh GR II’s crisp, clean single-frame photos contrast with the warmer, slightly more textured output of the GX-20 and its slower lens. Both have their charm depending on photo style.

Ricoh GR II front Ricoh GR II screen back Samsung GX 20 front Samsung GX 20 screen back

Who Should Buy Which Camera? My Final Recommendations

Choose the Ricoh GR II if:

• You crave a lightweight, pocketable camera with superb image quality.
• You enjoy street, travel, or reportage-style photography where discretion is key.
• Video recording (even basic) and wireless connectivity matter.
• You want reliable performance with minimal fuss.
• Your budget is around $600 or less on the used market.

Pick the Samsung GX-20 if:

• You prefer a traditional DSLR experience with physical controls and optical viewfinder.
• You want access to a mature lens ecosystem to tailor your focal length needs.
• You shoot portraits, landscapes, or macro with specialized lenses.
• You need partial weather sealing and a rugged body.
• You don’t need video and are happy shooting stills only.
• You’re willing to invest in lenses and carry a bulkier kit.

Wrapping Up

Both cameras reflect distinct philosophies and eras - the Ricoh GR II champions sleek, efficient large sensor compact photography, while the Samsung GX-20 embodies the classic DSLR spirit.

My personal experience aligns with many enthusiasts: the GR II is excellent for casual and street photographers valuing portability and image quality, while the GX-20 serves photographers who cherish manual control, lens versatility, and a traditional photographic workflow.

Hopefully, this detailed comparison helps guide your choice - whatever camera you pick, remember that great photos come from the photographer’s creativity, not the gear alone.

Happy shooting!