Ricoh announced the more affordable version of the Caplio R3, the R30, which features a 5.7X optical zoom (28-160 mm) and a 5.13MP sensor.

The main differences between the new model and the previous one (released on November 11) is the limited zoom, 5.7X compared to 7.1X, and the disappearance of the image stabilizing feature.

The Double Retracting Lens System, which has been newly developed from the original Retracting Lens System, allows part of the lens assembly to protrude from the camera cone during lens storage.

This enables the body, a mere 26 mm thick, to hold a 28-160 mm 5.7x wide zoom lens.

The camera has the popular macro mode, which can take a macro shot of an object from as close as just 1 cm. The Zoom Macro Function automatically sets the focal distance of the lens at the optimum distance for capturing an image as large and close as possible.

Ricoh says that its time calculated from the instant the focus is locked (half-press) until exposure actually starts is 0.007 seconds. Shooting interval and start time are both rapid, approx. 0.5 seconds and power up in approximately 1.1 seconds, respectively (measured while the flash is off).

The Caplio R30 has an easy-to-see 2.5-inch large-scale LCD monitor and will be available from January for 219.99 pounds.