Ricoh WG-20 vs Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400: A Practical Comparison for Practical Photographers

Choosing the right camera can be a complex puzzle, especially when comparing two very different models with distinct purposes and strengths. Today, I put the Ricoh WG-20 - a rugged compact designed for adventure - and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400 - a small sensor superzoom bridging point-and-shoot ease with SLR-style ergonomics - head-to-head. Both were launched in early 2014, so it’s a bit of a vintage face-off, but these cameras still have a charm for enthusiasts or budget-conscious buyers craving specialized functionality.

Having tested both extensively in the lab and the field, I’ll walk you through their key features, real-world capabilities, and exactly who each camera suits best. Along the way, we’ll explore everything from sensor details to autofocus performance, ergonomics, and how they handle various shooting scenarios - including portrait, landscape, wildlife, and video use. Let’s jump in!

Size, Handling, and Design: Compact Ruggedness vs. Bridge Camera Bulk

When it comes to size and feel, these two cameras couldn’t be more different.

The Ricoh WG-20 is a compact built for adventure. Its rugged, almost cube-like body is designed with waterproof, shockproof, and freezeproof sealing, making it your buddy for hiking, beach trips, or any rough-and-tumble shoot. It weighs a mere 164 grams and measures roughly 114 × 58 × 28 mm - easily slipping into a jacket pocket or small bag. The small 2.7-inch TFT LCD screen (230k dots) is fixed and simple but functional. Ergonomically, it has a handy button layout, though the lack of touchscreen or viewfinder means you’ll need to be a bit deliberate composing shots.

The Sony H400, in contrast, embraces the bulkier SLR-like ergonomics of a bridge camera. It’s significantly heftier at 628 grams and considerably larger at 130 × 95 × 122 mm. It’s designed to give more control with a bigger 3-inch Clear Photo LCD (460k dots) and an electronic viewfinder (EVF) with modest 201k dots resolution. While this means better framing and manual control potential, it’s less pocketable and more noticeable on the street. Handling leans toward users who prefer a longer grip and more deliberate shooting style.

You can see these differences clearly in size and top view comparison images:

Note the stark size difference - the WG-20 is ultra-compact, while the H400 dominates with its bridge camera presence.

Sony’s top layout is familiar to SLR shooters with well-marked dials and a mode wheel, whereas Ricoh keeps it simple and rugged.

In terms of button layout and operational philosophy, the Sony offers more manual exposure options including shutter and aperture priority, and a true manual mode - ideal if you like creative control. Ricoh, conversely, keeps things straightforward and mostly automatic, emphasizing durability and ease.

Sensor Specs and Image Quality: Shared Sensor Size with Different Resolution Trade-offs

Despite their radically different body types and target users, both cameras employ a 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor measuring approximately 6.17×4.55 mm, which is fairly typical for compact and bridge cameras but on the smaller side compared to mirrorless or DSLR counterparts. This sensor size limits individual pixel size and dynamic range but helps keep costs down and lens sizes compact.

The notable difference is resolution:

• WG-20: 14 megapixels (4288 × 3216 pixels)
• Sony H400: 20 megapixels (5152 × 3864 pixels)

At first glance, Sony's higher pixel count seems advantageous for capturing fine detail. However, the smaller pixel pitch can lead to higher noise levels and slightly reduced low light performance. Ricoh’s 14MP sensor trades off pixel count for potentially cleaner images in challenging lighting.

The sensor specs and image quality discussion is captured well here:

Both use 1/2.3" CCD sensors but diverge in resolution - 20MP vs 14MP.

From extensive controlled studio tests and practical outdoor shooting:

• The WG-20 produces punchy colors and decent sharpness at low to moderate ISO (up to 400), but image noise becomes quickly apparent beyond ISO 800.
• The H400, while sharper at base ISO due to higher pixel count, shows more noise at ISO 800 and above, impacting detail retention.

Neither is a low-light champion. CCD sensors generally lag behind modern CMOS in noise handling, and these cameras’ processors (with Ricoh’s being unspecified, Sony’s a Bionz derivative) lack advanced noise reduction algorithms found in newer models.

For landscape or daylight shooting where you can keep ISO low, both cameras deliver decent JPEGs, though the Sony’s optical image stabilization helps a little for handheld shots in medium light.

Autofocus and Performance: Tracking and Speed Under the Hood

Autofocus (AF) systems are crucial in dynamic shooting scenarios, and here the differences matter.

The Ricoh WG-20 features a modest contrast-detection AF system with 9 points, face detection, and center-weighted focusing, but no phase detection. It does have continuous AF (AF-C) for some tracking, though at a leisurely pace given its compact imaging pipeline. Face detection works well enough for casual portraits but lacks animal eye AF or more sophisticated tracking options.

The Sony H400 offers a similar contrast-detection AF but with unknown exact focus point count - advertised as multiple/selective areas and center-weighted options. It also supports face detection. However, continuous AF isn't available, limiting burst tracking speed for moving subjects.

Both cameras top out at a single frame per second continuous shooting rate, so don’t expect to catch fast sports action with rapid bursts or perfect tracking. If your subject is moving fast, neither camera excels, but for general wildlife spotting or casual action, each can suffice with patience.

In real-world use:

• The WG-20’s AF is faster in live view and more responsive during video due to continuous AF support.
• The Sony H400 is slower to lock focus and struggles slightly more in low light.

Neither supports RAW shooting, which would have helped recovering detail or flexibility, so autofocus precision and exposure accuracy during capture becomes even more important.

Value for Different Photography Genres: Strengths and Weaknesses in Context

Let’s break down which camera works best for your specific genres.

Portrait Photography

Good skin tones and subject isolation are key here.

• The WG-20’s smaller 5x zoom (28–140mm equivalent) has a maximum aperture range of f/3.5–5.5, and it supports face detection AF and some basic AF tracking. Its 1cm macro mode lets you get close-ups, which is great for intimate shots.
• The Sony H400 offers a huge 63x zoom range (25–1550mm equivalent) but with a slower aperture (f/3.4–6.5). While this lets you shoot subjects at a distance, the long telephoto end has narrower apertures - challenging for shallow depth of field or low light. It has face detection AF and offers more exposure control, helping in tricky indoor lighting.

However, neither camera creates the creamy bokeh or perfect skin tone nuances you’d get with larger sensors and faster lenses. If your priority is natural skin colors and background separation, neither will compete with a DSLR or mirrorless with prime lenses, but for casual portraits the WG-20’s macro and face detect feel more practical.

Landscape Photography

Here, resolution, dynamic range, weather resistance, and lens coverage matter.

• Both cameras have small sensors limiting dynamic range compared to bigger-sensor rivals, but as daylight shooters their images are fine for prints up to A4.
• The Sony H400’s higher pixel count and wider zoom range mean you can frame wide tight landscapes and then zoom for detail crops - advantageous if you want that flexibility. However, it lacks weather sealing.
• The Ricoh WG-20 shines for landscape shooters wanting an all-terrain shooter. Its waterproof and freezeproof build means you can shoot lakesides or even snowy scenes without risking damage.

If you want a rugged workhorse that can handle rough weather and get good daylight landscapes, the WG-20 wins. For more controlled, zoom-worthy landscape shots in fair weather, the H400’s sensor and lens range are tempting.

Wildlife Photography

Speed and reach are the name of the game here.

• The Sony H400’s 1550mm equivalent focal length is a major strong point. For bird or distant wildlife photography, it provides a reach normally only accessible with bulky telephoto lenses.
• The Ricoh WG-20 only offers 140mm zoom equivalent, limiting wildlife framing flexibility unless you can physically get closer.
• However, both cameras have slow continuous shooting speeds and modest autofocus tracking, limiting sharpness on fast-moving subjects.
• The H400’s lack of continuous AF is a downside for tracking animals.

In summary, if you prioritize extreme zoom and are patient with AF limitations, the H400 is the go-to. If you want durability to shoot in harsh terrain but aren’t zoom-dependent, consider the WG-20.

Sports Photography

Fast AF, rapid burst, and good low light performance are critical.

Neither camera is designed for fast sports photography. Both shoot at 1 fps continuous, which is slow by today’s standards, and have modest autofocus systems.

• The WG-20’s continuous AF and fast shutter speeds up to 1/1500 second help freeze some action, but frame rate bottlenecks hold it back.
• The Sony H400 offers manual exposure modes and higher max shutter speed (1/2000s), useful for action shots, but without continuous AF or fast bursts.

For serious sports, you’ll want to look elsewhere.

Street Photography

Discretion, portability, and responsiveness matter.

• The Ricoh WG-20’s compact size and waterproof design encourage spontaneous street shooting, even in unpredictable weather. Its silent shutter modes may be lacking, but the compactness is a win.
• The Sony H400’s bulk and telephoto lens make it less discrete, more suited to deliberate shooting.

For casual street snaps where you want to travel light and be ready in any condition, the WG-20’s size and ruggedness give it an edge.

Macro Photography

You’ll want close focusing and precise control.

• The WG-20 impresses with a 1cm macro mode, letting you get close to tiny subjects with decent detail.
• The H400, lacking a specified macro range, isn’t ideal for close-ups.

If macro shots span your interests, the WG-20 is the clear winner.

Night and Astrophotography

Bright, noise-free images plus long exposures are challenging here.

• Both cameras’ sensors and processors limit low light ISO to 6400 (maximum native ISO for WG-20) and 3200 for H400. Image noise rises sharply.
• Neither supports bulb mode or long exposure features often needed for astrophotography.
• Sony’s longer shutter speed limit (30s) is better than Ricoh’s 4 seconds, but the noise controls are lacking.

Neither camera is ideal for night sky or low light enthusiasts.

Video Capabilities

For casual video, these cameras offer some options but with constraints.

• The WG-20 shoots up to 1280×720 at 30 fps with Motion JPEG format. It lacks touchscreen autofocus, microphone input, and 4K video.
• The Sony H400 records 720p video as well but in more efficient MPEG-4/H.264. It offers a microphone port (a bonus!), but no headphone output. No image stabilization during video is specified beyond the optical IS on stills.

Neither is a serious video production tool but the Sony has a slight edge for casual shooting with audio input.

Travel Photography

Weight, versatility, and battery life matter most on the road.

• The Ricoh WG-20’s 164g weight and waterproof build make it a top pick for travel adventurers who expect rough conditions and want a camera that can go anywhere.
• The Sony H400, though heavier at 628g, offers incredible zoom versatility, letting you cover landscapes, wildlife, architecture, and close-ups without changing lenses.
• Battery life is modest on both (260 shots for Ricoh, 300 for Sony), so carrying spares is advisable.

If you want a travel camera that’s resistant to the elements and pocketable, go WG-20. If you seek an all-round zoom versatile camera and can carry the extra weight, H400 is compelling.

Professional Work

Neither camera targets professional users, but a brief look at reliability and workflow:

• No RAW support on either is limiting for serious post-production.
• Build quality favors Ricoh for reliability in tough conditions, while Sony’s more complex body offers flexibility.
• File handling is standard JPEG, stored on common SD cards.
• Sony supports Memory Stick PRO Duo, a minor plus.

Pro shooters will want better sensor tech, RAW files, and faster performance, so neither fills that niche.

Build Quality, Weather Resistance, and Ergonomics: The Durability Factor

The environmental sealing on the Ricoh WG-20 is a standout feature - waterproof to a depth, shock and freezeproof - giving confidence outdoors. It’s a tough companion where others might fail.

The Sony H400 lacks weather sealing or ruggedness; it requires more care to avoid damage from moisture or shock. On the plus side, the ergonomic grip is more substantial and the EVF helps framing in bright outdoor light.

The fixed LCDs on both are non-touch but functional. The Sony’s screen is bigger and higher resolution, making reviewing images more pleasant.

Take a look at the back screen comparison:

Sony’s bigger, sharper screen contrasts with Ricoh’s utilitarian small display.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: Fixed Zooms, Limits, and Possibilities

Both cameras use fixed zoom lenses:

• Ricoh WG-20: 28-140mm equivalent, f/3.5-5.5, good for wide-to-short-telephoto travel and macro.
• Sony H400: 25-1550mm equivalent, f/3.4-6.5, extraordinary zoom range for wildlife and telephoto needs.

No interchangeable lenses, so versatility relies on zoom range alone.

The Sony’s lens range dwarfs the Ricoh, but at the expense of size, weight, and optical compromises at extremes of such a superzoom.

Battery and Storage: What to Expect on the Go

Ricoh uses a proprietary D-LI92 battery rated for about 260 shots; Sony’s battery details are less clear but rated around 300 shots per charge.

Storage options:

• Ricoh: SD, SDHC, SDXC
• Sony: SD, SDHC, SDXC plus Memory Stick PRO Duo/Pro-HG Duo, adding slight format flexibility.

Both cameras have a single SD slot, so if you’re shooting outdoors or on trips, carrying spare cards and batteries is crucial.

Connectivity and Extras: Old School USB and HDMI Only

Neither camera supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC. Communication relies on USB 2.0 and HDMI ports:

• Both have HDMI out for TV viewing.
• Only the Sony has a microphone input, a plus for video recording.

No GPS means no automatic geotagging.

Real-World Image Samples and Scores: Putting it All Together

After extensive testing under varied conditions, sample images from both cameras reveal their character:

Ricoh WG 20 front Ricoh WG 20 screen back Sony H400 front Sony H400 screen back

Performance scores (based on lab and field tests) give a quantitative peek:

Breaking down genre-specific strengths:

Final Recommendations: Matching Cameras to Your Photography Lifestyle

Choose the Ricoh WG-20 if:

• You want a go-anywhere rugged waterproof camera that won't mind swimming, bumps, or freezing temps.
• Your shooting is casual or travel-based focusing on landscapes, close-ups, or everyday moments.
• Portability, ease of use, and affordability (~$370) are key.
• You value simple, reliable autofocus with macro support.
• Video is a secondary concern.

Choose the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400 if:

• You need extreme zoom reach (up to 1550mm equivalent) for wildlife, distant subjects, or sports.
• You desire more manual controls (shutter/aperture priority, exposure compensation) for creative experimentation.
• You're okay carrying a bigger, heavier camera (~628g) and operating in fair-weather environments.
• Video recording with microphone input is useful.
• You want a better LCD and electronic viewfinder for composing shots.

Wrapping Up

Both the Ricoh WG-20 and Sony H400 fill very specific niches - one designed for rugged adventure and ease, the other tailored to zoom versatility and manual creative control. Their shared small sensor and fixed lens design roots them firmly in the compact/bridge segment, suitable mostly for enthusiasts on a budget or those requiring specialized functionality rather than top-end image quality.

In my experience, knowing what you prioritize - whether it’s durability and portability or zoom reach and manual exposure - makes the choice straightforward. Neither camera will replace a pro-level kit, but both have their charm and practical uses if approached with the right expectations.

Hopefully, this detailed side-by-side helps you weigh these trade-offs with confidence. And if you’re still curious, don’t forget to check my video reviews and sample galleries where you can see both cameras in action.

Happy shooting!