Ricoh CX2

The follow up to the highly acclaimed CX1

When the Ricoh CX1 hit the camera market the critics, including DCE absolutely loved it. Image quality, design, and features were all spot on so it came as a bit of a surprise when Ricoh announced the CX2 so close to the release of its predecessor considering the CX1 is still such a popular model.  

Specification wise there are minimal differences between the two however the CX2 does support some upgrades and on paper it is an improvement to the CX1. One of the biggest alterations comes in the form of the 10x optical zoom over the CX1’s 7x optical zoom and this does make a difference however not necessarily for the best. At full zoom the CX2 had to be kept very still in order to avoid image shake and in lowlight this was frustrating. The zoom control was sluggish to respond and the focus in some lighting scenarios struggled to lock onto the subject matter. This issue appears to have adopted itself with the extra length to the lens, as the CX1 did not incorporate these problems.

As to be expected the image quality produced from the CX2 was to an excellent standard with accurate metering across the scene. The CX2 supports the same sensor as the CX1 so results between the two models really do not vary greatly apart from a slight difference on the dynamic range mode that has been enhanced. Generally images produced from the CX2 have a good colour balance across the spectrum however when left on the auto mode the results were occasionally weak in saturation.

The Ricoh CX2’s auto mode is not its key selling point and to get the most out of the camera the photographer needs to apply the appropriate settings. For the amateur photographer this may prove to be frustrating however the CX2 will help improve photography skills. For anyone who wants to eventually advance up the camera ladder and take photography seriously than the CX2 is a great first camera.   

When the Ricoh CX1 came to the market it was crammed full of features and the CX2 is no different. In fact the new model incorporates exactly the same settings and has even sneaked in a few extras including a miniaturize mode and a high contrast black and white feature. The latter seems rather unnecessary as this effect is something that can easily be achieved post shoot on a computer or in the in camera editing suite. A new manner mode has also been incorporated and this disables all sounds of the camera so you can become discrete taking images. Disappointingly this setting cannot be applied with the Auto or DR mode that would have been a more practical use.

Another upgrade of the CX2 is the continuous shooting speed that has been increased from 4 frames per second (CX1) to 5fps. As far as sports photography goes than the CX2 is undoubtedly the ultimate compact camera to own as nothing is going to be missed with its incredible shooting capacity of 120fps. However it is worth noting, just like its predecessor that the image quality greatly suffers on this setting and you will be left with mountains of images to sort through.   

Looks wise the Ricoh CX2 is still a retro, sturdy, well built compact that oozes coolness and looks great in any photographer’s hand, however Ricoh has amended one small part. A rubber grip can now be found on the front panel that for practical reasons is useful, although design wise the CX1 is a superior looking compact as the rubber grip ruins the smooth black box design.  

When it came to functionality than the CX2 performed at a good level although the OK/ADJ dial is awkward to use and needs to be flicked rather than pressed. This would have been a good feature to see modified from the CX1 and it is disappointing that Ricoh has overlooked this.

There are small issues with the CX2 however most of these problems are minor and should not deny the CX2 its full recognition. The CX2 is really a great compact camera, packed full of features produces high quality images so in terms of value for money than this is one worth every penny.  

Final Verdict Whether you buy the CX1 or CX2 they are both fantastic compacts however if you want the extra zoom and can keep a steady hand than choose the latter. OVERALL

Claire started studying photography over six years ago where she was intrigued by the act of image making. Claire has a great passion for traditional photographic methods however she’s found the change to the digital medium to be a fascinating advancement.