Comparing the Ricoh GXR Mount A12 and Samsung PL170: Finding Your Photography Match in 2011

Choosing the right camera often boils down to how well it fits your creative style, technical needs, and budget. Today, we’ll take an expert, hands-on look at two distinctive cameras introduced in 2011: the Ricoh GXR Mount A12, a rangefinder-style entry-level mirrorless camera, versus the Samsung PL170, an ultraportable compact. Both target different user types but could appeal to those venturing into digital photography or upgrading from highly basic gear.

We will examine each camera’s core features, delve into sensor and image quality, autofocus, shooting capabilities, overall ergonomics, and more - all to help you decide which camera complements your vision best.

First Impression: Design, Size & Controls

When you pick up a camera, its physical feel often shapes your shooting enthusiasm. Let’s start with the fundamentals - size and design.

The Ricoh GXR Mount A12 boasts a robust, boxy design typical of rangefinder-style shooters. At roughly double the thickness of the Samsung PL170 and weighing 370 grams, it feels sturdy and substantial in hand. Its ergonomics favor a deliberate shooting experience, better suited for those who appreciate physical controls and lens interchangeability.

On the other hand, the Samsung PL170 dazzles with its ultra-slim, pocketable design. It’s one of those cameras you can easily slip into a coat pocket and capture snapshots without intimidation. The downsized form, however, comes with tradeoffs, especially in manual control and sensor size, which we’ll discuss below.

Control Layout and Handling

Ease of use is crucial for your shooting flow. The Ricoh GXR’s top-mounted dials and buttons provide direct access to shutter speed, aperture priority, and manual modes. Samsung’s PL170 leans heavily on automation, with fewer physical controls and no manual exposure options.

The PL170’s simplicity resonates with casual users and point-and-shoot fans. But for photographers wanting to harness creative control like aperture or shutter priority, the GXR’s interface is more empowering.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of Your Photos

Sensor size and technology largely dictate image quality, low light performance, and dynamic range. These elements affect how well your photos will look - especially when printing large or cropping tightly.

Why Sensor Size Matters

The Ricoh’s APS-C sensor is nearly 13 times larger than the Samsung’s tiny 1/2.3" sensor. This gulf impacts noise control, color depth, and dynamic range profoundly. Larger sensors gather more light, leading to cleaner images with greater detail - especially in shadows and highlights.

Despite having fewer megapixels, the GXR’s APS-C sensor delivers better overall image fidelity and low-light performance. That’s not to say the PL170 can’t produce decent images; its CCD sensor and higher pixel count may offer sharp 16MP jpeg files suitable for casual sharing, but it struggles in tricky lighting.

Autofocus and Shooting Dynamics

How quickly and accurately a camera focuses can make or break certain photography types - especially fast-paced ones like sports or wildlife.

The Ricoh’s contrast-detection autofocus (CDAF) offers decent focus accuracy for its class, great for everyday shooting and portraiture. However, it lacks face detection or eye AF, which limits speedy subject tracking. The 3 frames per second burst is modest but usable for casual action.

In contrast, the Samsung PL170 doesn’t have an autofocus mechanism. Its fixed lens system means you rely on zoom and composition to keep your subject sharp. This restricts its utility for fast-moving subjects or macro work.

Exploring the Display and Viewfinder Experience

Your camera’s screen and viewfinder shape how you compose and review shots. Despite advances in electronic viewfinders and touchscreens today, these 2011 models present more basic designs.

Ricoh’s higher-resolution rear LCD gives you a sharp and clear view for framing and playback. The option to add an external electronic viewfinder aids bright light shooting, though none is bundled.

Samsung’s screen, significantly lower resolution, offers less clarity, affecting manual focus and detail checking. No viewfinder forces you to rely solely on the LCD, which can be challenging outdoors.

Image Samples: What You Can Expect

There’s no substitute for seeing real-world photos from each camera. While both deliver 720p HD video, their still image quality diverges considerably.

Ricoh GXR Mount A12 front Ricoh GXR Mount A12 screen back Samsung PL170 front Samsung PL170 screen back

• The Ricoh produces crisp images with natural skin tones, good color accuracy, and manageable noise up to ISO 800.
• The Samsung samples show reasonable sharpness in good daylight but softness and noise creep in shadows and indoors.
• Richer bokeh and shallow depth of field effects are easier with the Ricoh’s larger sensor and wider aperture lenses.

Overall, image fidelity favors the Ricoh, especially for demanding genres.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance: Durability Matters

Both cameras cater to entry-level and casual shooters rather than professional ruggedness.

If you’re shooting outdoors often, consider the GXR’s slightly more robust frame and weather resistance of lenses (depends on specific modules). Samsung’s PL170 is delicate, better suited for indoor or controlled outdoor conditions.

Macro, Portrait, and Specialized Photography

Portraiture

• The Ricoh’s interchangeable lens system lets you pick fast primes or zooms tailored for flattering bokeh and sharp facial details.
• Samsung’s fixed lens limits creative choices; portraits can look flat due to smaller sensor and slower aperture.

Macro

• Ricoh supports closer focusing distances and precision manual focus, great for macro setups.
• Samsung lacks specific features or lens options for true macro shooting.

Night and Astro Photography

• The Ricoh’s superior sensor and manual exposure modes allow experimenting with long exposures and high-ISO shooting.
• The PL170 lacks manual controls, limiting night shooting.

Video Capabilities

Video was a developing area for entry-level cameras then.

Both cameras offer basic HD video but lack audio input or stabilization - meaning handheld video can be shaky and audio tracked by the camera is compromised.

Battery, Connectivity, and Storage

The Ricoh again edges ahead with HDMI output and longer battery life, making it suitable for extended shoots or tethered workflows.

Price and Value: What You Get for Your Money

The Samsung PL170 targets budget-conscious consumers prioritizing portability and ease of use. By contrast, the Ricoh GXR offers more creative control and better image quality for roughly double the price, justifying the investment for enthusiasts.

Performance Summary

Here’s a snapshot of comprehensive camera performance grading from our expert evaluation:

As expected:

• Ricoh GXR scores highly on image quality, manual control, and versatility.
• Samsung PL170 is lower on image performance and lacks pro-level controls.

Best Use Cases by Photography Genre

Different genres demand specific camera traits. Here’s a breakdown of which camera fares better in each:

• Portraits: Ricoh GXR excels with better skin tone rendering and bokeh.
• Landscapes: Superior resolution and dynamic range on Ricoh.
• Wildlife/Sports: Limited for both; Ricoh better autofocus but slow continuous shooting.
• Street: Samsung’s compactness makes it discreet; Ricoh better image quality but less portable.
• Macro: Ricoh’s lens options and focus precision dominate.
• Night/Astro: Ricoh’s manual settings and low-light sensor are a decisive advantage.
• Video: Both basic; Ricoh slightly better output options.
• Travel: Samsung’s size wins for light packing; Ricoh for image versatility.
• Professional: Ricoh capable as a lightweight secondary camera or enthusiast tool.

Final Recommendations: Matching Your Photography Ambitions

When to Choose the Ricoh GXR Mount A12

You should consider the Ricoh GXR Mount A12 if:

• You want control over exposure with aperture and shutter priority modes.
• You value large sensor quality and raw file output for maximum post-processing flexibility.
• You shoot portraits, landscapes, macro, or low-light scenes that demand fine detail and tonal depth.
• You’re ready to invest in interchangeable lenses and a more deliberate, manual shooting style.
• You want connectivity options like USB and HDMI for versatile use.

The Ricoh is an excellent step-up camera for emerging enthusiasts and semi-professionals who seek portability without sacrificing creative control.

When to Choose the Samsung PL170

The Samsung PL170 might fit you if:

• Portability and pocketability are your top priorities - a true grab-and-go device.
• You’re interested in simple point-and-shoot usage with minimal fuss.
• Budget constraints require an ultra-affordable camera.
• You mostly shoot in daylight or well-lit conditions and don’t care about manual controls.

It’s a suitable starter camera for casual users, travelers, or those seeking an unobtrusive camera for quick snapshots.

Wrapping Up: Know Your Needs, Try Before You Buy

Both the Ricoh GXR Mount A12 and Samsung PL170 carry distinct design philosophies. The Ricoh aims at enthusiasts who desire manual control, sensor superiority, and lens versatility in a compact system. The Samsung is a no-frills, ultra-compact solution for snapshots on the go.

Before investing, I highly recommend hands-on trials if possible. Feel the ergonomics, test drive menus, and snap sample pictures in conditions close to your typical shooting environment. This approach ensures the chosen camera aligns with your creative journey.

Explore compatible accessories, especially lenses for the Ricoh GXR, to unlock its full potential. For Samsung owners, carrying extra memory cards and a protective case will enhance your experience.

Happy shooting!

We trust this detailed comparison helps you navigate 2011’s camera options with confidence - empowering your next photographic adventure with the right gear.