DSLR image quality in a truly pocketable body
Despite being the lightest compact in our roundup at 251g, the GR II packs an impressive 16.2MP APS-C sensor, the second largest in the group. The follow up to 2013’s GR, a camera that received the ‘Highly Rated’ award in our recent premium compact test, the GR II maintains much of its forebear’s specifications, but with a series of improvements including the addition of Wi-Fi and NFC. Its 18.3mm f/2.8 lens provides a relatively wide 28mm full-frame equivalent focal length. While this fixed lens makes it a less versatile camera then some of its rivals, it’s a perfect length for street photography and in-situ portraits. Producing sharp results, this optic combined with the large sensor captures image quality that would be on par with many entry-level DSLRs. The ISO range stretches from 100 to 25,600, and thanks to that APS-C sensor captures far less noise than all but the Leica in this group. Its burst shooting speed of 4fps may not set the world on fire, but with an expanded buffer of ten shots, there are far worse cameras for continuous shooting than this. There are options for HDR images, interval shooting and 17 effect modes that can be applied to images as you shoot.
Autofocus via the camera’s contrast detect system is pleasingly fast, and when coupled with the camera’s focus assist light, it performs well, even in testing conditions. Manual focus adjustment is possible on the GR II, as is subject tracking, face detection and pinpoint AF.
The camera has no in-built EVF, but an external optical viewfinder can be bought separately and mounted via the hotshoe for £150. A fixed non-touch 3in 1230k-dot rear display provides a decent resolution for image composition, image review and menu operation.
The camera can record Full HD (1080p) at a slightly weak 30fps, and lacks audio inputs and outputs, limiting its use for videographers. AF during recording has, however, been improved, now enabling continuous AF unlike on the original GR. The camera has a pop-up flash and a battery life of 290 shots.
While its build lacks a premium feel, the slim magnesium alloy body of the GR II could easily slip into a pocket, arguably the only compact in the roundup which could. With front and rear dials and plenty of controls, camera operation is kept delightfully simple.
Verdict
The GR II’s fixed lens won’t suit everyone, particularly those looking for extensive reach. But for street photographers, this camera is an ideal tool. With its ultra-light body and sleek design, it manages to blend excellent image quality and a truly compact size better than any other camera in this roundup. If you’re looking for reliable performance on the go, this could be the camera for you. But with its current price of £599, the older but near-identical Ricoh GR at £449 may be the better value option.
Specs
Camera: Ricoh GR II
Lens: 18.3mm f/2.8
Price: £599
Effective resolution: 16.2MP
Sensor: 23.7x15.7mm APS-C CMOS
LCD: 3in 1230k-dot fixed
EVF: None. External viewfinder available separately
Autofocus: Contrast
ISO: 100-25,600
Shooting speed: 4fps for 10 RAW files
Video: Full HD (1080p) at 30fps
Battery life: 290 shots
Size (WxHxD): 117x63x35mm
Weight: 251g