Ricoh RDC-5300

When compared to the Canon PowerShot S10 in our outdoor tests, the Ricoh captured textures with more depth and detail. Move the camera inside however, and the RDC-5300's higher compression was more evident, with any subtle variation in colours drowned out in an attempt to sharpen the image and save storage space. In comparison to the RDC-5000 though, textures were smoother and subtler, and highlights and shadowing were noticeably less noisy. However, the overall quality can't rival the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-F505 (reviewed issue 63, p135), our digital camera Labs winner.

The RDC-5300 brings Ricoh digital cameras into a more affordable price range, and at £468 offers good value for money as well as some useful features. If Ricoh had put more thought into the design, and included a recharger or an AC adaptor, this would be a much more attractive package. In terms of value for money though, it can't be criticised - this is the best quality we've yet seen for under £500.

Author: Ben Hardwidge