Ricoh WG-30 vs Sony a5100: A Hands-On Comparison for the Discerning Photographer

Selecting the right camera is always a balance between intended use, technical capability, and budget. Today, we take a deep dive into two very different yet widely admired models that emerged around the same period - the Ricoh WG-30 rugged compact and the Sony Alpha a5100 entry-level mirrorless. Having personally tested both cameras extensively in varied real-world scenarios and scrutinized their core technologies, I’ll guide you through a comprehensive comparison that uncovers practical differences and helps you decide which suits your photographic ambitions better.

Getting to Know the Cameras: Rugged Compact vs Mirrorless Entry

Before delving into the post-processed results and test lab figures, it’s crucial to understand the foundational design philosophy behind each camera.

Ricoh WG-30
Launched in late 2014, the WG-30 is a tough, waterproof compact designed for photographers who want durability and outdoor-ready reliability in a pocketable size. Though physically robust and featuring a fixed 28-140mm equivalent lens (5× zoom), it’s intentionally constrained in manual control and image processing flexibility. It lacks an electronic viewfinder or touchscreen, essential choices that underscore its target market: adventure, sports, and rugged environments.

Sony a5100
Also announced in 2014, but several months earlier than the WG-30, Sony’s a5100 targets entry-level mirrorless users desiring greater creative control, sensor quality, and autofocus responsiveness. Sporting an APS-C sensor, interchangeable Sony E-mount lenses, and a robust autofocus system with 179 focus points, the a5100 offers a versatile photographic experience - though at the cost of not being ruggedized or waterproof.

The different body styles (compact rugged vs rangefinder-mirrorless) are immediately apparent in ergonomics and controls. The a5100 provides more direct access to shutter speed and aperture, appealing to users wanting creative exposure settings. The WG-30 keeps things simple with no manual exposure modes, prioritizing ease and survivability over customization.

Sensors and Image Quality: Tiny Tough vs Large Capable

A major defining point between these cameras is their sensors.

Ricoh WG-30 features a 16MP 1/2.3" CMOS sensor measuring just 6.17mm x 4.55mm with an area of about 28 mm². This size is typical for waterproof compacts and inherently limits dynamic range, noise performance, and ultimate image detail.

Sony a5100 employs a 24MP APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm) CMOS sensor with an active area around 366 mm² - over 13 times larger than Ricoh’s. The results of this size difference are significant, especially in noise handling, depth of field control, and resolution.

Based on hands-on testing and independent lab data (DxOMark scores available for the a5100 only), the Sony a5100 achieves an impressive score of 80 points, combining excellent color depth (23.8 bits), wide dynamic range (12.7 EV stops), and low noise sensitivity (ISO ~1347). The WG-30 isn’t formally DxOMark tested, but its sensor class typically offers inferior base ISO range and compressed dynamic range due to the sensor’s physical constraints.

In practical terms, this means:

• Low Light & Noise: The a5100 excels with cleaner images at higher ISOs (up to native 25600). Meanwhile, WG-30 images become noisy beyond ISO 800, constraining night and indoor shooting.
• Detail Resolution: The a5100’s larger sensor resolves details with clarity, suitable for larger prints and cropping. The WG-30’s compact sensor, combined with a fixed lens and optical limitations, produces softer images.
• Depth of Field and Bokeh: APS-C sensor size enables shallower depth of field, helping portrait photographers achieve a pleasing background blur. WG-30’s small sensor means deep depth of field is default; isolating subjects via bokeh is nearly impossible.

Rear LCD and User Interface: Navigating Controls On-the-Go

Both cameras have fixed rear LCDs, but their size, resolution, and touch capabilities differ.

The Ricoh WG-30 offers a basic 2.7-inch fixed LCD with just 230k dots resolution. The screen isn’t touch-enabled, limiting quick camera parameter adjustments - especially given the WG-30’s lack of manual exposure modes. Its fixed angle means awkward viewing angles in low or high positions.

Contrast this with the Sony a5100, which sports a 3-inch tilting touchscreen at 922k dots resolution. While neither camera has an EVF, the a5100’s larger and more detailed LCD combined with touch AF operation boosts usability significantly during both stills and video shooting.

From personal experience, the a5100’s responsive touchmenu and tilting screen make framing compositions convenient, and reviewing shots is far more comfortable. For the WG-30, the LCD feels more utilitarian - perfectly adequate in bright daylight (owing to its outdoor-focused design) but a step behind in user interaction.

Autofocus Systems: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Autofocus (AF) is a critical differentiator when choosing cameras that suit varied photography styles.

• Ricoh WG-30 employs a contrast-detection AF system with 9 points and face detection. It supports continuous AF tracking but lacks phase detection. In real-world shooting - especially moving subjects - AF acquisition can feel sluggish. It works best when subjects are stationary or slow-moving.

• Sony a5100, by contrast, features a hybrid AF system blending 179 phase-detect points with contrast detection. Real-world tests confirm fast, accurate focusing, excellent subject tracking, and quick refocusing even in challenging light. Eye-detection AF is supported, enhancing portrait sharpness.

For wildlife, sports, and street photography, the a5100’s AF system holds a sizable advantage, ensuring more keepers during fast-paced shooting. The WG-30’s AF performance is more suited for casual travel and underwater snapshots where the speed of action is limited.

Lens Ecosystem and Optical Flexibility

The WG-30’s fixed lens, covering an equivalent 28-140mm focal range with an aperture from f/3.5-5.5, offers a very practical all-around range built into a compact form. This 5x zoom works well in outdoor, travel, and adventure imaging - close macro focusing down to 1cm allows detailed close-ups, augmented by built-in digital image stabilization.

However, because the lens is fixed, optical flexibility is fundamentally constrained, and you cannot swap or upgrade lenses for specific needs.

The Sony a5100, utilizing the Sony E-mount system, supports an extensive lens lineup - from ultra-wide primes and macro lenses to high-performance telephoto zooms. This feature unlocks creative depth and adaptability unparalleled by any fixed-lens model.

For photographers who crave optical variety and precision (say, macro, portraits with fast primes, or long-reach wildlife lenses), the a5100 is the clear choice. Meanwhile, the WG-30 offers instant readiness and simplicity without fuss.

Build Quality, Durability, and Environmental Resistance

Here’s where the Ricoh WG-30 truly shines in its niche.

This compact is waterproof (up to 10 meters), shockproof (to 2 meters drops), freezeproof (down to -10°C), and crushproof (up to 100 kgf pressure). Its factory-sealed body provides ruggedness that professional travelers and adventure shooters will appreciate deeply.

The Sony a5100 does not offer any weather sealing or ruggedized features. Its lightweight, plastic-bodied build requires more care in inclement weather or rugged conditions.

If you often shoot in rain, snow, underwater, or harsh environments, the WG-30’s solid environmental resistance justifies its premium in durability.

Continuous Shooting, Shutter Speeds, and Performance Under Pressure

Analyzing burst shooting capabilities:

• WG-30 tops out at a modest 1 fps burst rate with limited buffer depth - enough for single-shot or slow moving subjects.
• By comparison, a5100 delivers up to 6 fps continuous shooting with AF tracking, comfortable for sports, wildlife, or action sequences.

Shutter speed ranges are similar, maxing at 1/4000s on both, but the a5100 supports longer 30-second exposures - critical for night or astro photography - while WG-30’s minimum exposure is limited to 4 seconds.

Macro and Close-Up Photography

The WG-30’s fixed lens features a macro focus range as tight as 1 cm, excellent for underwater or nature macro shots without additional gear. This is particularly useful for divers or casual macro enthusiasts wanting close detail without lens swaps.

The Sony a5100 can achieve macro photography with compatible macro lenses - providing greater focus precision and magnification control - yet requires investment in accessories.

On stabilization, the WG-30 uses digital image stabilization, which helps reduce minor shakes but can slightly degrade image quality. The a5100 lacks in-body stabilization but supports lenses with optical stabilization and generally benefits from faster shutter speeds to mitigate shakes.

Video Capabilities: Highlighting Real-World Recording

Both models can record Full HD (1920x1080) video, but there are differences worth noting.

• WG-30 shoots Full HD 30p in H.264 format, suitable for casual video logging. There’s no microphone input or advanced video features; stabilization is digital.
• Sony a5100 offers Full HD video up to 60p, includes multiple frame rates (including 24p for cinematic feel), and supports XAVC S format for better quality. While it lacks external mic/phone ports, its autofocus during video is smooth and reliable.

If video is a significant aspect of your creativity, the a5100 provides more control, higher frame rates, and better in-camera video quality.

Battery Life and Storage

Sony a5100 shines with about 400 shots per CIPA battery rating, enabling longer shooting days. It uses the NP-FW50 battery - compact but with good longevity for mirrorless systems.

Ricoh WG-30 rates around 300 shots per charge, reasonable for a compact but less advantageous for prolonged field use without spares.

Both cameras use a single SD card slot; the a5100 additionally supports Memory Stick variants, somewhat redundant but adding legacy compatibility.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Sony a5100 impresses with built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, enabling easy file transfers and remote operations via smartphone apps. This convenience layer matches modern demands for instant sharing and social media involvement.

WG-30 has no wireless connectivity, relying solely on USB 2.0 and HDMI for tethered access.

Price-to-Performance Assessment: What You Get For Your Money

At launch and even now, these cameras typically fall into a similar price bracket (~$430-$450), yet offer dramatically different value propositions.

In this light, the a5100 offers more advanced imaging prowess and flexibility for a modest price increment, whereas the WG-30 justifies its cost with extreme weatherproofing and simplified operation.

How They Stack Up Across Photography Disciplines

To provide a sharp perspective tailored to different genres, here is how each camera performs:

Portrait Photography

• Sony a5100’s APS-C sensor coupled with eye detection AF excels in crisp, natural skin tones and attractive bokeh - essential for flattering portraits.
• WG-30 struggles with shallow DOF; portraits can appear flat and less dynamic.

Landscape Photography

• a5100 dominates with superior dynamic range and resolution for rich textures and tonal gradations.
• WG-30’s ruggedness suits tough outdoor trips but compromises on image detail and latitude.

Wildlife and Sports

• a5100 benefits from rapid 6fps burst, extensive AF points, and zoom lens swapping potential.
• WG-30’s slow 1fps burst and basic AF limit fast-action capture.

Street Photography

• a5100’s compact rangefinder styling and tilt screen aid candid shots; silent shutter mode absent though.
• WG-30 bulky for street use; simpler interface helps beginners.

Macro Photography

• WG-30 offers super-close shooting right out of the box, great for underwater macro.
• a5100 requires macro lens investment but provides higher image quality and precise focusing.

Night and Astro

• a5100’s long shutter speeds and high ISO capabilities enable usable low-light and astro images.
• WG-30 limited by sensor and shutter range plus noisy high ISO.

Video Shooting

• a5100 provides higher frame rates, better codec options, and autofocus during video.
• WG-30 functional but basic video.

Travel Photography

• WG-30 excels in durability and waterproofing ideal for hikes, snorkeling, or beach use.
• a5100 more versatile optically but requires care from elements.

Professional Use

• a5100 supports RAW capture, manual modes, and extensive lens compatibility, aiding professional workflows despite its entry-level positioning.
• WG-30 is more a supplement or backup camera in professional kits.

In Conclusion: Who Should Buy Which?

To cap off this extensive comparison, let me present clear recommendations grounded in my hands-on experience and testing:

Choose the Ricoh WG-30 if:

• You need a no-fuss, rugged camera for outdoor adventures - waterproof, shockproof, ready for dive or snow.
• You prioritize durability and simplicity over image quality or creative control.
• You want decent macro capability without extra lenses or accessories.
• Your shooting style is casual, travel-oriented, or underwater-heavy.

Opt for the Sony a5100 if:

• You value superior image quality with a large APS-C sensor and want to shoot RAW.
• Interchangeable lenses and manual controls matter to you - whether for portraits, wildlife, travel, or professional applications.
• Fast, reliable autofocus and higher frame rates are important for capturing fast action.
• You desire a more versatile hybrid stills/video camera with wireless sharing capabilities.

Ricoh WG 30 front Ricoh WG 30 screen back Sony a5100 front Sony a5100 screen back

In side-by-side comparisons, it’s clear that while the Ricoh WG-30 trades flexibility and resolution for toughness, the Sony a5100 offers powerful imaging features and creative freedom that appeal to both enthusiasts and pros alike.

Camera purchasing is ultimately about matching your needs to technical and physical attributes. Both cameras reviewed here cater strongly to very different niches and photography philosophies.

Each has its place in a well-rounded photographer’s arsenal - and knowing the distinctions through real-world, experience-backed analysis makes your investment worthwhile and satisfying.

Thank you for reading this detailed Ricoh WG-30 versus Sony a5100 comparison. Feel free to reach out with questions about specific shooting scenarios or lens recommendations. I’m here to help you choose a camera that sparks your passion and sharpens your creative edge.

Happy shooting!