Name: Ricoh WG-50
Brand: Ricoh

Technical Specifications of Ricoh WG-50

Overall score

4.1

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.

Sensor & Image

5.5

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Sensor size

What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.

When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

Main camera megapixels

What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.

When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

Main camera pixel size

What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.

When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

Base ISO

What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.

When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

Max ISO

What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.

When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

Photo Features

3.1

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Lens mount

What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.

When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Built-in focus motor

What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.

When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

N. of focus points

What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.

When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.

When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

AF tracking

What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.

When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

Video & Audio

3.9

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Max video resolution

What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.

When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

Video bitrate

What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.

When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

Video bit depth

What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.

When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

Video chroma subsampling

What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.

When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

Video codecs

What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.

When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

H.264

Display & Design

4.3

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Type

What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.

When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

compact

Weight

What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.

When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

Width

What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.

When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

Height

What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.

When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

Thickness

What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.

When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

Battery & Power

4.2

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Battery life (CIPA)

What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.

When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

Battery capacity

What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).

When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

Removable battery

What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.

When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

Importance: LOW

USB Power Delivery (PD)

What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.

When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

Connectivity & Storage

2.9

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Wi-Fi connectivity

What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.

When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

Wi-Fi version

What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.

When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Bluetooth connectivity

What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.

When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

Bluetooth version

What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.

When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A

USB Type-C

What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.

When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

Ricoh WG-50 vs the average camera

Why is Ricoh WG-50 better than the average camera?

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Uses a BSI sensor
Ricoh WG-50 uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
What it is: Indicates the use of a Back-Side Illuminated sensor, which arranges the wiring behind the light-receiving surface to improve low-light sensitivity.
When it matters: When you take photos in dim environments and need better light sensitivity.
Importance: LOW
Ricoh WG-50 uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
Supports slow-motion video
Ricoh WG-50 supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
Supports up to 120 fps high-speed video.
What it is: The ability to record at high frame rates so motion can be played back more slowly than real time.
When it matters: When you want to emphasize fast action, movement details, or dramatic moments in playback.
Importance: LOW
Ricoh WG-50 supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
14 m deeper water resistance
Ricoh WG-50 has a higher waterproof depth rating than the average camera (14 m vs 0 m). The average camera has a waterproof depth rating of 0 m.
What it is: The maximum depth at which the camera can be used underwater or remain water-resistant, usually measured in meters.
When it matters: When you plan to shoot underwater, snorkel, or use the camera in heavy wet conditions.
Importance: LOW
Good value: At least 10 m
Ricoh WG-50 has a higher waterproof depth rating than the average camera (14 m vs 0 m). The average camera has a waterproof depth rating of 0 m.14 m vs 0 m
51.1% lighter
Ricoh WG-50 is lighter than the average camera (193 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: 500 g or less
Ricoh WG-50 is lighter than the average camera (193 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.193 g vs 395 g
Built-in timelapse
Ricoh WG-50 includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.
What it is: A mode that captures frames at set intervals so long events can be played back as accelerated video.
When it matters: When you want to show long processes like sunsets, clouds, or city movement in a short finished clip.
Importance: LOW
Ricoh WG-50 includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.
4 newer
Ricoh WG-50 is newer than the average camera (2017 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
May 2017
What it is: The month and year when the camera was officially announced or released.
When it matters: When you want a newer camera with more current features, support, or connectivity.
Importance: LOW
Ricoh WG-50 is newer than the average camera (2017 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.2,017 vs 2,013
0.07 GB more storage
Ricoh WG-50 has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0.1 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.
What it is: The total built-in space available for apps, media, and files.
When it matters: When you keep large libraries of photos, videos, and apps directly on your device.
Importance: LOW
Ricoh WG-50 has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0.1 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.0.068 GB vs 0 GB
16.5 mm thinner
Ricoh WG-50 is thinner than the average camera (29.5 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.
Importance: LOW
Ricoh WG-50 is thinner than the average camera (29.5 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.29.5 mm vs 46 mm
14 m deeper water resistance
Ricoh WG-50 has a higher waterproof depth rating than the average camera (14 m vs 0 m). The average camera has a waterproof depth rating of 0 m.
51.1% lighter
Ricoh WG-50 is lighter than the average camera (193 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
16.5 mm thinner
Ricoh WG-50 is thinner than the average camera (29.5 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
12.4 mm shorter body
Ricoh WG-50 is shorter than the average camera (61.5 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
Uses a BSI sensor
Ricoh WG-50 uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
4 newer
Ricoh WG-50 is newer than the average camera (2017 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
Supports slow-motion video
Ricoh WG-50 supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
Built-in timelapse
Ricoh WG-50 includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.
0.07 GB more storage
Ricoh WG-50 has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0.1 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.

Connectivity & Storage

Why is Ricoh WG-50 worse than the average camera?

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0.3 in smaller screen
Ricoh WG-50 has a smaller screen than the average camera (2.7 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.
No hot shoe
Ricoh WG-50 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
Smaller sensor
Ricoh WG-50 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
2 µm smaller main-camera pixels
Ricoh WG-50 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
0.2 MP lower resolution on the main camera
Ricoh WG-50 has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (16 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
4.7 fps slower mechanical burst
Ricoh WG-50 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
No RAW photo capture
Ricoh WG-50 does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
14 fewer AF points
Ricoh WG-50 has fewer focus points than the average camera (9 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
No manual exposure control
Ricoh WG-50 does not support manual exposure, the average camera does. 72% of cameras support manual exposure controls.
No true manual exposure mode.
26 s shorter maximum exposure
Ricoh WG-50 supports a shorter maximum exposure than the average camera (4 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.
No continuous video AF
Ricoh WG-50 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
focus locked at recording start
1 fewer microphones
Ricoh WG-50 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
46.7% lower video bitrate
Ricoh WG-50 has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (16 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
195 mAh smaller battery capacity
Ricoh WG-50 has a lower battery capacity than the average camera (925 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.
30 shots shorter battery life
Ricoh WG-50 has shorter battery life than the average camera (300 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
Smaller sensor
Ricoh WG-50 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: Full frame or larger
Ricoh WG-50 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).1/2.3" vs APS-C
4.7 fps slower mechanical burst
Ricoh WG-50 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
What it is: The maximum burst rate the camera can achieve using its mechanical shutter, measured in frames per second.
When it matters: When you photograph sports, wildlife, or action and want more chances to catch the exact moment.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: At least 10 fps
Ricoh WG-50 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.1 fps vs 5.7 fps
2 µm smaller main-camera pixels
Ricoh WG-50 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: At least 3.5 µm
Ricoh WG-50 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.1.34 µm vs 3.34 µm
0.3 in smaller screen
Ricoh WG-50 has a smaller screen than the average camera (2.7 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.
What it is: The physical diagonal measurement of the display area, usually expressed in inches.
When it matters: When you want a larger display for reviewing shots, using menus, or shooting from awkward angles.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: At least 3 in
Ricoh WG-50 has a smaller screen than the average camera (2.7 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.2.7 in vs 3 in
No continuous video AF
Ricoh WG-50 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
focus locked at recording start
What it is: The ability of the camera to keep adjusting focus automatically while video recording is in progress.
When it matters: When you film while subjects or camera distance keep changing and manual refocusing is impractical.
Importance: LOW
Ricoh WG-50 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
No hot shoe
Ricoh WG-50 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
What it is: A mounting interface on top of the camera for attaching accessories such as flashes, triggers, or microphones.
When it matters: When you want to mount an external flash, trigger, microphone, or other camera-top accessory.
Importance: LOW
Ricoh WG-50 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
1 fewer microphones
Ricoh WG-50 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
What it is: The number of built-in microphones used to capture audio while recording video.
When it matters: More built-in microphones can capture broader, clearer sound when you record without an external microphone.
Importance: LOW
Good value: At least 2 microphones
Ricoh WG-50 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.1 vs 2
No RAW photo capture
Ricoh WG-50 does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
What it is: The ability to save images in an uncompressed RAW format, preserving all sensor data for advanced post-processing.
When it matters: When you plan to edit your photos professionally and need the most data possible.
Importance: LOW
Ricoh WG-50 does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Ricoh WG-50?

Extremely resistant: waterproof to 14m, shockproof (drops from 1.6m), crushproof (100kgf) and freeze-proof (-10°C)
Excellent macro capabilities thanks to the integrated LED lights around the lens
Ergonomic and easy to handle design, difficult to slip from your hands
Lightweight and compact, ideal for everyday use and travel
Good color reproduction and reliable exposure

What customers dislike about Ricoh WG-50?

Lack of built-in Wi-Fi
Lack of optical image stabilization (OIS)
The images are sometimes soft or unclear
Poor low light performance (high noise)
The buttons on the back are quite small

Expert reviews

ephotozine.com

31/08/2017

Ricoh WG-50 Review | ePHOTOzine

The ePHOTOzine review of the Ricoh WG-50 highlights a rugged, 16-megapixel camera featuring improved 14-metre waterproofing, 1.6-metre shockproofing, and useful macro LED lights. While praised for producing vibrant colours and reliable exposure in good light, the camera is criticized for its lack of optical image stabilisation, resulting in soft images. Major drawbacks include poor...Read more

stuff.tv

28/07/2017

Ricoh WG-50 review - Stuff

The Ricoh WG-50 is a mid-priced rugged compact camera that offers exceptional durability but delivers mediocre overall performance. Priced at £250, it sits squarely between cheaper options like the Fujifilm XP120 and premium models like the Olympus TG-5. It excels in extreme environments, boasting a waterproof rating down to 14 meters, shockproofing against 1.6-meter drops,...Read more

shutterbug.com

06/07/2017

Ricoh WG-50 Compact Camera Review - Shutterbug.com

The Shutterbug review highlights the Ricoh WG-50 as an exceptionally durable and cost-effective compact camera designed for extreme outdoor activities, featuring waterproofing to 46 feet, 5.25-foot shock resistance, and -10°C freeze-proofing. Key performance advantages include a versatile 5x optical zoom (28-140mm), fast autofocus, and specialized shooting modes like Pet Detection....Read more

trustedreviews.com

04/07/2018

Ricoh WG-50 Review - Trusted Reviews

The Trusted Reviews evaluation of the Ricoh WG-50 highlights a 16-megapixel rugged camera that excels in underwater and macro photography, notably utilizing a built-in six-LED ring light for close-up illumination. Pros include its durable design, natural color output, and a dedicated macro stand for detailed, close-up shooting, making it suitable for casual vacation use. Conversely,...Read more

havecamerawilltravel.com

27/11/2023

Ricoh WG-50 Waterproof Camera Test & Review

The Have Camera Will Travel review highlights the Ricoh WG-50 as a highly durable, budget-friendly "adventure cam" featuring a 16-megapixel sensor and a 5x internal optical zoom. Its core strengths include a robust, waterproof design suitable for harsh environments up to 46 feet deep and a specialized underwater mode that compensates for lost color spectrums. Conversely, the review...Read more

consumerreports.org

No Date Provided

Ricoh WG-50 Camera Review - Consumer Reports

The Consumer Reports review of the Ricoh WG-50 highlights it as a rugged, 16-megapixel, waterproof camera offering a 5x optical zoom and 2.6-inch LCD screen. Key strengths include fast power-up speed, quick shooting intervals, and good-quality Full HD video with clear monaural audio. Conversely, the camera's significant drawbacks include poor image stabilization at telephoto lengths...Read more

bhphotovideo.com

09/02/2018

Things We Love: Macro Functions on Tough Cameras

The B&H Photo Explora article highlights how rugged point-and-shoot cameras, specifically the Olympus Tough TG-5, offer highly capable, specialized macro photography without the need for expensive lenses. Featuring an impressive 1 cm minimum focusing distance, these durable, waterproof cameras enable easy, detailed, and stacked close-up imaging in harsh environments, including...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

16/08/2017

Ricoh WG-50 Review: Durability Over Image Quality

The Ricoh WG-50 is a rugged compact camera designed for durability rather than exceptional image quality, earning a 3 out of 5 rating from Les Numériques. Its primary strength lies in its robust, waterproof construction, which allows it to dive up to 14 metres, withstand freezing temperatures down to -10°C, and resist crushing forces up to 100 kg. A standout feature is the ring of...Read more

quechoisir.org

10/10/2017

Ricoh WG-50 Review - Camera - UFC-Que Choisir

The Ricoh WG-50, as reviewed by UFC-Que Choisir, is an ultra-rugged camera designed for extreme environments, featuring waterproofing down to 14 meters, 1.6-meter shock resistance, and 100 kg crush protection. Key pros include six dedicated macro LED lights for close-up lighting and an "Outdoor View" setting that significantly boosts screen brightness, while the 5x optical zoom...Read more

altroconsumo.it

23/07/2026

RICOH WG-50 Camera Review Archive - Altroconsumo

The RICOH WG-50 is a rugged, shockproof, and waterproof digital camera designed for extreme sports and outdoor activities, featuring a 28–140 mm equivalent focal length lens and a 16-megapixel sensor. Tested in June 2017 and priced around €250, it received a low overall quality score of 40 out of 100 from Altroconsumo expert reviewers. While the camera offers decent video quality...Read more

consumentenbond.nl

01/05/2018

Ricoh WG-50 - Test, Reviews & Prices - Consumentenbond

The Ricoh WG-50 is an outdoor underwater camera featuring a distinctively styled, rugged design equipped with a 5x optical zoom lens (28-140 mm equivalent) and a 1/2.3-inch (8 mm) image sensor. A key highlight of this model is its integrated macro ring light consisting of six LED lights positioned directly around the lens, which is paired with well-placed physical controls across...Read more

onderwatercamerakopen.com

10/06/2018

Ricoh WG-50 review - buyunderwatercamera.com

The Onderwatercamerakopen.com review gives the Ricoh WG-50 a poor rating of 2.5 out of 5 stars, concluding that it is overpriced and difficult to recommend over superior competitors like the Fujifilm FinePix XP120 or XP130. On the positive side, the review highlights the camera's highly durable, rugged design, which features excellent exterior textures for a secure wet grip. It...Read more

Ricoh WG-50 Review | 108 Data compared

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Verdict

Technical Specifications of Ricoh WG-50

Ricoh WG-50 vs the average camera

Why is Ricoh WG-50 better than the average camera?

Why is Ricoh WG-50 worse than the average camera?

Graphic comparison of Ricoh WG-50 and

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Ricoh WG-50?

What customers dislike about Ricoh WG-50?

Expert reviews

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