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We shoot a specially designed chart in carefully controlled conditions and the resulting images are analysed using DXO Analyzer software to generate the data to produce the graphs below.
A high signal to noise ratio (SNR) indicates a cleaner and better quality image.
For more more details on how to interpret our test data, check out our full explanation of our noise and dynamic range tests.
Overall picture
Our results from the lab have been compared against the Samsung EX1, Canon PowerShot S100 andFujifilm X10
Our analysis shows that the Ricoh GR IV results compare well against the Samsung EX1 and Fujifilm X10, but is out performed by the Canon PowerShot S100 on all but JPEG dynamic range. JPEG signal to noise ratio is good across the sensitivity range, however when it comes to TIFF files (after conversion from raw) there are clearly visible signs of noise in the image from ISO 800 upwards. Dynamic range results vary greatly across the sensitivity range especially in JPEG files, TIFF files from ISO 1600 indicate that some tonal detail can easily be lost within the shadows and highlights.
JPEG Signal to Noise Ratio
JPEG images from the Ricoh GR IV compare well against shots from the Samsung EX1 and noise is handled well across the sensitivity range.
Raw (TIFF) Signal to Noise Ratio
TIFF images (created by converting raw files) compare well against the Samsung EX1, but the Samsung camera does just have the edge. From a sensitivity of ISO 800 the SNR drops below 30 showing the noise will become an issue in images.
JPEG dynamic range
This chart shows that dynamic range of JPEG images across the sensitivity range is varied with the sensor capturing a good tonal range up to ISO 400. Above this sensitivity results drop steadily and, whilst not bad, the Samsung EX1, Canon PowerShot S100 and Fujifilm X10 all put in a better performance. At the higher end of the sensitivity scale some tonal detail can easily be lost in the shadows and highlights.
TIFF file (after conversion from raw) dynamic range lags behind the Samsung EX1,Canon PowerShot S100 and Fujifilm X10 at all sensitivities.
