Ricoh R10

The latest Ricoh camera offers subtle improvements over the popular R8

At its launch, the R8 brought with it many new features, not least of which was a complete physical redesign. However, upgrading from an R8 to an R10 is much like playing one of those spot the difference games in your local free paper.

They share an almost identical body, both use 10-megapixel sensors and both are fitted with 28mm wide-angle lenses with 7.1x optical zoom, while significant features such as dual mode image stabilisation and face detection were already available on the R8.

Once you've convinced your eyes to accept the idea that the two cameras really aren't the same, the subtle differences start to pop out at you — as long as you're looking at the back of the camera, that is. Perhaps the most noticeable feature is a larger, 3in LCD which shares the high-quality 460,000 dot resolution of its predecessor.

There's also an extra button, labelled 'Fn'. While this button doesn't add any new functions per se, it does provide a very quick way to change certain key settings while shooting. For example, you can use it to move the autofocus target without moving the camera.

To find other improvements you'll have to search within the camera menus. With a feature borrowed from Ricoh's high-end CR Digital II and GX200 cameras. the R10 is now equipped with an accelerometer which is able to provide a digital 'spirit- level' display showing you when you're holding the camera level. It also provides an automatic rotation function when viewing your images.

Solidly built, the R10 feels like a real camera, not a toy or a fashion accessory and takes pictures of a correspondingly high quality. Ideal for enthusiasts who like a little creative control, it's also very easy to use despite its large range of features.

Perhaps the best improvement of all is that the R10 costs £50 less than the R8 at launch. Paul Monckton

Contact Ricoh www.ricoh.co.uk
Specifications 10-megapixel, 1/2.3in sensor • 7.1x optical zoom (28-200mm 35mm equivalent) • 1cm macro • CCD-shift vibration reduction; 1/2,000 seconds — 8- second shutter speed • ISO 64-1,600 • 3in TFT monitor with 460,000 pixels • 12 scene modes • Auto level sensor • SD/SDHC compatible • 54MB internal memory • Movie mode • Face recognition • Anti-shake system • USB2 Hi-speed interface • Audio/Video out • 300-shot battery life • 102x26x58mm (wxdxh) • 168g

Personal Computer World February 2009

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