The new G600 from Ricoh is a compact, water and dust-resistant, wide-angle, 5x zoom digital camera.

The G600 is designed for outdoor use and is claimed will withstand a 1.5 metre fall.

In addition to the 5x optical wide-angle zoom lens (equivalent to 28-140mm for a 35mm camera), the G600 offers a 1cm macro function and flash with a range of 10 metres.

Designed for "hard outdoor use", the camera is water resistant at depths of down to about 1m but it is also dust resistant so pictures can be taken in environments, such as the beach, as it will resist sand and dust.

It is also suitable for shooting in low light conditions offering ISO 3200 sensitivity.

Additional features include a 2.7-inch picture display, which has a light sensor which automatically adjust the display's brightness based on ambient light level.

The camera measures 116.5 x 68 x 32mm and weighs 260 grams.

The G600 also has a lithium ion battery which delivers approximately 360 shots on one charge but if the battery runs out, AAA size batteries can be used instead.

The G600 will be available in May for £349.99.