Compact in disguise: Among digital-camera makers, Ricoh is known as a small player, but one that likes to do things differently. Its latest burst of independence is the just-announced Caplio GX200, an evolution of its GX100 compact that raised eyebrows last year.
The GX200, like its predecessor, shares the dimensions of a modern compact, but in spirit is much more like an old-fashioned camera — enjoyable to hold and use, giving you more with the more work you put into it.
The new camera boasts an F2.5-4.4 lens that offers the 35-mm film equivalent of 24 mm to 72 mm — wider than the typical compact camera lens — along with image stabilization. Moreover, the Ricoh device emulates SLR cameras by providing extensive manual controls. The masquerade as an SLR is enhanced by a detachable lens cover, rather than the usual automatic mechanism that closes over the lens.