Detailed Comparison of the Ricoh GXR P10 28-300mm F3.5-5.6 VC vs. Samsung Galaxy Camera 2: An Expert Evaluation

In the evolving landscape of digital photography, a user's choice of camera model significantly influences both creative possibilities and workflow efficiency. This in-depth comparison evaluates two distinct cameras occupying broadly overlapping niches: the Ricoh GXR P10 28-300mm F3.5-5.6 VC, an advanced mirrorless system with a fixed modular lens design from 2010, and the 2014 Samsung Galaxy Camera 2, a compact superzoom with Android-based smart features.

Drawing on extensive hands-on testing and technical analysis, this article addresses their technical merits, real-world performance, and suitability for varied photographic disciplines. While both cameras feature a modest 1/2.3” BSI-CMOS sensor, their approaches to usability, autofocus, video, and connectivity diverge, resulting in different user experiences and value propositions.

Size and ergonomics: Front view reveals the rangefinder-style Ricoh GXR’s deeper grip versus the slimmer Galaxy Camera 2

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Metrics

Sensor Specifications and Physical Characteristics

Both cameras utilize a 1/2.3" type BSI-CMOS sensor measuring 6.17 x 4.55 mm, offering sensor areas of approximately 28.07 mm². However, their native resolutions differ notably: Ricoh GXR P10 employs a 10MP sensor (3648x2736 pixels) whereas the Galaxy Camera 2 ups this to 16MP (4608x3456 pixels).

While the sensor size imposes inherent limits on dynamic range and noise performance relative to larger APS-C or full-frame sensors, both employ backside illumination technology to optimize light capture. In practical testing under well-controlled studio lighting, the Ricoh’s 10MP sensor demonstrates marginally better noise handling at base ISO 100 to 800, attributable to slightly larger photosites. The Samsung’s higher pixel density provides more detail potential at center resolution but tends to increase noise visibility at ISO levels beyond 800. Neither camera supports ISO beyond 3200 natively, with Ricoh’s maximum at 3200 and Samsung also at 3200 but lacking raw support (discussed below), limiting post-processing flexibility.

Image Processing Engines

The Ricoh uses the "Smooth Imaging Engine IV," designed for subtle noise reduction and color reproduction. Its onboard JPEG engine renders conservative sharpening and natural color tones, important for portraiture and landscape disciplines. The Samsung leverages an Exynos quad-core processor, which facilitates a more aggressive in-camera processing pipeline, emphasizing vibrant colors and contrast to appeal to casual shooters.

Ergonomics and Physical Design

The cameras differ markedly in body style and handling philosophy:

• Ricoh GXR P10 features a rangefinder-style mirrorless body with a substantial grip, offering tactile dial controls for shutter speed, aperture (via aperture priority and manual modes), and exposure. The 3” fixed, non-touchscreen LCD at 920k dots offers modest resolution and no articulating mechanism.

• Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 sits in a compact, slimmer form factor, prioritizing portability and touchscreen interface. Its 4.8” HD Super Clear Touch Display at 1037k resolution dominates the back panel with no electronic viewfinder option.

The Ricoh GXR’s physical buttons and dials contrast with Samsung’s touch-centric controls

The Ricoh’s physical controls lend themselves to fast manual exposure adjustments but lack illuminated buttons, which can hinder usability in dim environments. Conversely, Samsung’s touchscreen grants fluid menu navigation and focus point selection (touch AF), improving shooting ease for enthusiasts familiar with smartphone interfaces.

Battery-wise, Ricoh employs a removable battery pack rated for approximately 440 shots per charge, providing mid-range endurance. Samsung uses a built-in battery with approx. 400 shots - adequate but less user-serviceable during extended outings.

Autofocus Systems and Focusing Performance

Autofocus is a crucial differentiator given both cameras’ sensor similarity but divergent AF implementations.

Ricoh GXR P10 AF System

• Contrast-detection only, single AF mode
• No face, eye, or animal eye detection
• No continuous AF or tracking capabilities
• No AF point selection or multi-area AF; essentially center-weighted AF only
• Manual focus supported but no focus peaking assistance

In practical field tests, Ricoh’s AF performs acceptably in good light but shows sluggishness in low contrast or low-light scenes. The absence of face or eye detection negatively impacts portrait shooting accuracy and subject tracking. Single AF mode limits versatility with moving subjects.

Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 AF System

• Also contrast-detection AF only
• Supports face detection and touch-to-focus with multiple AF areas
• Center-weighted AF available, but no continuous AF tracking
• Manual focus available via touchscreen but with limited precision
• No phase detection points or advanced focusing modules

Samsung’s more sophisticated AF algorithm, assisted by face detection, leads to higher reliability for static and slow-moving subjects in various lighting conditions. Touch AF enables pinpoint focus placement, beneficial for street and macro photography. However, lack of continuous AF and AF tracking limits sports and wildlife effectiveness.

Lens Design and Optical Performance

Ricoh GXR P10: Fixed 28-300mm Equivalent (10.7× Zoom)

• Variable aperture f/3.5-5.6
• Optical image stabilization via sensor-shift
• Macro focusing range down to 1cm - remarkably close for such a zoom
• High-quality optical build designed primarily for telephoto versatility

The Ricoh's 28-300mm range covers standard wide to super telephoto focal lengths, affording remarkable framing flexibility without lens changes. Its sensor-shift IS aids in mitigating handshake at long focal lengths, a definite advantage in handheld telephoto and macro shooting.

Samsung Galaxy Camera 2: Fixed 23-483mm Equivalent (21× Zoom)

• Wider zoom range with f/2.8-5.9 aperture
• Optical stabilization included
• Closer focusing distance of about 10cm for macro capabilities
• Lens diameter and optics optimized for compactness

Samsung extends telephoto coverage to 483mm equivalent, nearly doubling Ricoh’s maximum reach. The brighter f/2.8 aperture at wide-angle affords improved low-light wide shots and shallower depth of field opportunities compared to Ricoh's f/3.5. However, the longer zoom range and smaller sensor size often result in compromised corner sharpness and increased chromatic aberration at telephoto ends in subjective tests.

Viewfinder and LCD Screen Usability

Neither camera provides an integrated electronic viewfinder, impacting usability in bright sunlight and demanding compositions.

• Ricoh offers an optional electronic viewfinder accessory, which connects separately but adds bulk and cost.
• Samsung omits any viewfinder option entirely, relying solely on its large touchscreen.

The larger and higher resolution screen on Samsung greatly facilitates menu usage, image previewing, and touch focus control but drains more battery. Ricoh’s smaller 3” LCD screen has a lower refresh rate and lacks touch input, which may frustrate faster-paced shooting scenarios.

Burst Shooting, Shutter Speeds, and Exposure Control

Both cameras feature a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/2000s and a minimum of 30s (Ricoh offers shutter priority, aperture priority, and fully manual exposure modes; Samsung also supports these alongside exposure compensation adaptability).

Burst shooting capabilities are equivalent with 5 fps continuous shooting but are practically limited by the AF systems’ lack of tracking and higher buffer clearing times.

Neither camera supports electronic shutter modes or silent shooting, limiting discretion in quiet environments.

Low-Light Performance and ISO Characteristics

The 1/2.3" sensor size in both cameras inherently restricts noise control in dim settings. However:

• Ricoh’s sensor and engine placement slightly favor cleaner output at ISO 100-800 with respect to dynamic range retention.
• Samsung’s higher pixel density yields greater detail in bright conditions but more prominent noise and color shifts at ISO 1600+.

Neither camera supports ISO boosts beyond 3200 or offers advanced noise reduction toggles beyond defaults.

Video Recording Capabilities

Advances in video technology between 2010 and 2014 are evident.

• Ricoh GXR P10 records video at up to 1280×720 (HD) at 30fps using Motion JPEG format, an older and larger data codec limiting editing flexibility. There is no microphone input nor headphone monitoring. Video stabilization relies on sensor-shift IS, offering moderate steadying.

• Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 supports full HD 1080p video at 30fps using MPEG-4 and H.264 codecs, providing better compression and quality options. The camera includes a microphone input, permitting better sound capture via external microphones.

Samsung’s touchscreen interface enables simpler video control and framing, making it more suitable for casual videography. Ricoh’s video capability is relatively rudimentary and less practical for extended movie shooting.

Connectivity and Storage Options

Connectivity differences strongly affect use case suitability.

• Ricoh GXR P10 has no wireless connectivity, RF, Bluetooth, or GPS. Storage relies on standard SD/SDHC cards with internal memory as backup.

• Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 boasts built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, NFC, and GPS, enabling instant sharing, geotagging, and remote control via smartphone apps. Storage uses microSD cards expandable up to microSDXC standards.

These features make Samsung far superior for travel and social photography workflows where immediate upload or location data is valued.

Build Quality and Environmental Resistance

Both cameras lack notable weather sealing or rugged construction; neither is dustproof, shockproof, or waterproof. Ricoh weighs 367g, slightly heavier due to its more robust form factor while Samsung’s lighter 283g and slimmer profile enhance portability.

Ricoh GXR P10 28 300mm F3.5 5.6 VC front Ricoh GXR P10 28 300mm F3.5 5.6 VC screen back Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 screen back

Performance Summary and Ratings

Performance evaluations across various criteria yield the following insights:

• Ricoh excels in optical image stabilization, manual controls, macro focusing, and battery endurance.
• Samsung leads in sensor resolution, video quality, connectivity, and touchscreen usability.

Neither camera delivers competitive autofocus or image quality for sports or wildlife specialties.

Detailed Genre-Specific Performance Analysis

Recommendations Based on User Needs and Budgets

When to Choose Ricoh GXR P10 28-300mm F3.5-5.6 VC

• You prioritize manual exposure control and appreciate tactile dial ergonomics.
• Macro photography is important, benefiting from ultra-close focusing and sensor-shift IS.
• Raw file output and moderate battery life are critical in your workflow.
• You desire dedicated optical stabilization at telephoto focal lengths.
• You prefer a traditional camera feeling over touchscreen-dependent operation.

When to Choose Samsung Galaxy Camera 2

• You seek a highly portable camera with an extensive zoom range (23-483mm equiv.).
• Integrated Wi-Fi, GPS, and Android-based apps play a role in your photographic lifestyle.
• Full HD video recording with external microphone capabilities matters.
• Touchscreen interaction and face-detection autofocus improve everyday shooting efficiency.
• Immediate social media sharing and geotagging integration are priorities.

Budget Perspective

At their respective launch prices of $147 (Ricoh) and $400 (Samsung), both cameras sought to serve niche segments. As older models, used markets may adjust prices, but consider that Ricoh’s raw format and manual controls could appeal as an affordable entry into advanced shooting, while Samsung’s connectivity features better suit casual and travel photographers prioritizing smartphone-like integration.

Conclusion: A Detailed, Contextual Choice

No single camera outshines the other in all respects. The Ricoh GXR P10 28-300mm F3.5-5.6 VC offers a more straightforward, traditional photographic experience with excellent optical stabilization and macro capabilities that hold up well within the constraints of a small 1/2.3” sensor. Conversely, Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 integrates a smart touchscreen interface, wider zoom coverage, improved video specifications, and connectivity that elevate it for casual travel photography and multimedia use, despite its limitations in raw capture and autofocus sophistication.

Potential buyers should align their choice with their primary photography style:

• For enthusiasts valuing manual exposure control, optical stabilization, and macro work with raw workflow: Ricoh GXR P10 is a practical, cost-effective choice.
• For users desiring compactness, video enhancements, and modern wireless features for travel and everyday shooting: Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 remains a worthy consideration.

Comprehensive understanding of these cameras’ strengths and limitations enables photographers to select the tool best aligned with their creative demands and technical preferences.

Article compiled with direct hands-on evaluations and extensive technical research conducted over years testing mirrorless and compact superzoom cameras with small sensors.