Ricoh GR IV Review: A Comprehensive Guide
The Ricoh GR IV has arrived, and it brings exciting updates to one of photography’s most beloved compact camera series.
This pocketable powerhouse combines a large APS-C sensor with professional features in a body that fits comfortably in your jeans pocket.
The GR series has built a cult following among street photographers and enthusiasts who value image quality over bulk.
Key Takeaways
- Sensor and Image Quality: The GR IV features a 25.7MP APS-C back-illuminated CMOS sensor, providing slightly higher resolution than the GR III and better low light performance with reduced noise levels.
- Enhanced Stabilization: The new 5-axis image stabilization system delivers up to 6 stops of shake reduction, correcting angular, rotational, and shift blur for sharper handheld shots.
- Improved Autofocus: Faster and more accurate autofocus performance, especially in dim lighting conditions, makes capturing decisive moments easier than before.
- Compact Design: Maintains the slim, pocketable form factor with a premium magnesium alloy body while adding improved ergonomics and control layout refinements.
- Premium Price: At $1,499.95, the GR IV costs significantly more than the GR III’s original $899 launch price, positioning it as a premium compact camera investment.
Ricoh GR IV Digital Camera
The Ricoh GR IV represents the latest generation of the acclaimed GR series. This camera delivers professional image quality in a truly portable package. The 25.7 megapixel APS-C sensor produces detailed images with excellent dynamic range. You can slip this camera into your pocket and forget about it until the perfect moment arrives.
The fixed 28mm f/2.8 lens has been redesigned for this model. It delivers sharp images from edge to edge with minimal distortion. This focal length works perfectly for street photography, environmental portraits, and documentary work. The lens design keeps the camera body incredibly thin without compromising optical quality.
Built for real photography, the GR IV includes snap focus mode on the main dial. This feature lets you pre-set a focus distance and shoot instantly without waiting for autofocus. Professional photographers love this for capturing fleeting moments on busy streets. The camera responds instantly when you press the shutter button.
The new GR ENGINE 7 image processor handles the increased sensor resolution efficiently. It processes RAW files quickly and applies various image control settings. You get 14-bit RAW files with plenty of room for post-processing adjustments. JPEG output straight from the camera looks excellent with natural color rendering.
Battery life has improved over the previous model. You can expect around 200 shots per charge in normal use. The camera charges via USB-C, making it convenient to top up from power banks while traveling. Many photographers carry a spare battery for full-day shooting sessions.
New Back-Illuminated Sensor Technology
The back-illuminated sensor represents a significant upgrade from the GR III’s front-illuminated design. This technology places the sensor’s wiring behind the photodiodes rather than in front. More light reaches the actual light-gathering elements, improving efficiency and reducing noise.
Low light performance sees noticeable improvements with the new sensor. You can shoot at higher ISO settings with cleaner results. Images at ISO 3200 and 6400 show less noise and better detail retention. Night street photography becomes more feasible without a tripod.
The sensor captures 25.74 megapixels, providing extra resolution for cropping. This helps when you need to reframe shots in post-processing. The additional pixels give you more flexibility without sacrificing portability. Print sizes up to 16×24 inches look stunning with proper technique.
Dynamic range performance remains excellent throughout the ISO range. Shadow details recover well in post-processing without introducing excessive noise. Highlight rolloff appears smooth and natural. The sensor handles high-contrast scenes better than many compact cameras.
Color accuracy straight from the sensor impresses professional users. Skin tones render naturally without post-processing adjustments. The camera reproduces colors faithfully across the spectrum. This makes the GR IV suitable for commercial and editorial work.
Enhanced 5-Axis Image Stabilization System
The GR IV introduces true 5-axis stabilization for the first time in the series. Previous models had 3-axis stabilization, but this upgrade corrects more types of camera shake. The system compensates for angular blur, rotational movement, and shift blur simultaneously.
Six stops of compensation means you can handhold the camera at surprisingly slow shutter speeds. A 28mm lens typically requires 1/30th second minimum, but stabilization lets you shoot at 1/2 second or slower. This opens creative possibilities for intentional motion blur and low light shooting.
The stabilization system works brilliantly for video recording. Footage appears smooth even when walking slowly. The system adapts to different movement patterns automatically. However, aggressive movements still show some shake, so consider using a gimbal for serious video work.
Macro photography benefits tremendously from the enhanced stabilization. The camera focuses as close as 6cm from the subject. Stabilization helps maintain sharp focus at this distance where tiny movements matter. Food photographers and detail shooters appreciate this capability.
The system operates silently without any audible motor noise. You won’t hear clicking or buzzing during operation. This maintains the GR series’ reputation for discrete, unobtrusive shooting. The stabilization engages smoothly without causing viewfinder judder.
Top 3 Alternatives for Ricoh GR IV
Improved Autofocus Performance and Speed
Autofocus speed has increased noticeably compared to the GR III. The camera locks focus more quickly in good lighting conditions. Face and eye detection work reliably when subjects occupy enough of the frame. The system identifies faces and tracks them as they move.
Low light focusing shows the most dramatic improvement. The GR IV can focus down to -3 EV, which is quite dark. Street scenes at dusk no longer cause the camera to hunt endlessly. You can capture moments that would have been impossible with the previous model.
Continuous autofocus still struggles compared to dedicated mirrorless cameras. The system hunts occasionally when tracking moving subjects. Single autofocus mode provides better reliability for most shooting situations. Pre-focusing with snap mode often works better for action.
The focus area selection offers flexible options. You can choose from multiple AF points or use free positioning. Touch-to-focus on the rear LCD works intuitively. Most photographers set a single center AF point and use focus-and-recompose technique.
Autofocus accuracy impresses when shooting wide open at f/2.8. The camera achieves precise focus even with shallow depth of field. This matters when shooting portraits or isolating subjects. You can trust the focus system in critical situations.
Premium Build Quality and Ergonomics
The magnesium alloy body feels solid and well-built. Despite the compact size, the camera doesn’t feel like a toy. Weather-resistant seals protect against dust and light moisture. You can shoot confidently in challenging conditions without worry.
Control layout improvements make the camera more intuitive to operate. The mode dial now includes a dedicated position for snap focus mode. Physical buttons feel responsive with good tactile feedback. Nothing feels mushy or uncertain when making adjustments.
The grip area provides just enough purchase for secure handling. Ricoh designed the camera to operate with one hand comfortably. Your thumb rests naturally on the rear controls. The shutter button position allows smooth operation without camera shake.
Size and weight make the GR IV genuinely pocketable. It measures just 109.4mm wide, 61.9mm tall, and 35mm deep. The camera weighs only 258g including battery. You can carry it everywhere without fatigue or inconvenience.
The LCD screen offers excellent visibility in various lighting conditions. Touch functionality works responsively for menu navigation and focus point selection. Screen resolution at 1.04 million dots provides clear image review. The display tilts for high and low angle shots.
28mm Fixed Lens Performance
The fixed 28mm equivalent focal length defines the GR shooting experience. This wider perspective works perfectly for environmental storytelling. Street photographers love this focal length for capturing context and atmosphere. You get enough of the scene without excessive distortion.
The f/2.8 maximum aperture provides decent low light capability. While not as fast as f/2 or f/1.4 lenses, it balances portability with performance. You can achieve some background separation at close focusing distances. The aperture creates pleasant bokeh when conditions allow.
Optical quality throughout the frame impresses discerning photographers. Sharpness extends from center to corners at all apertures. The lens shows minimal distortion for an ultra-wide angle. Chromatic aberration remains well-controlled in high-contrast situations.
Close focusing distance of 6cm enables creative macro-style shots. You can fill the frame with small subjects while maintaining context. This capability makes the camera versatile beyond street photography. Food, product, and detail photography become possible.
The lens hood attachment helps reduce flare in backlit situations. Optional lens adapters provide additional creative possibilities. Some photographers add conversion lenses to change the focal length. These accessories expand the camera’s versatility without sacrificing portability.
Internal Storage and Memory Options
The GR IV includes 53GB of internal storage, a massive increase from previous models. This built-in memory provides peace of mind when you forget a memory card. You can shoot confidently knowing the camera has backup storage available.
The camera now uses microSD cards instead of full-size SD cards. This change allows for a slimmer body design. MicroSD cards offer the same speeds and capacities as full-size cards. Most photographers already have these cards for other devices.
Dual communication support lets you wirelessly transfer files while shooting. The camera can upload images to your smartphone in the background. You can share photos on social media without interrupting your shooting flow. This feature appeals to content creators and bloggers.
File formats include both JPEG and 14-bit RAW (DNG) capture. You can shoot both simultaneously or choose one format. DNG files open in any RAW processing software without proprietary converters. This makes workflow simpler across different platforms.
Buffer depth handles continuous shooting reasonably well. The camera can capture multiple frames before slowing down. For a compact camera focused on deliberate shooting, buffer performance meets expectations. Most GR users shoot single frames rather than bursts anyway.
Image Control and Color Science
Ricoh’s image control system offers extensive customization options. You can create custom picture profiles with specific contrast, saturation, and tone curve settings. Creative photographers appreciate this control over the JPEG output. The camera becomes a tool that adapts to your vision.
The color science produces natural, pleasing results straight from the camera. Ricoh avoids oversaturated colors that look unrealistic. This approach suits documentary and street photography perfectly. Skin tones render accurately without post-processing corrections.
Black and white conversion options include multiple toning effects. High contrast black and white mode produces dramatic results. You can preview the monochrome effect while shooting. This helps visualize the final image before pressing the shutter.
Image effects include positive film, bleach bypass, retro, and miniature modes. These creative tools provide instant artistic looks. Some photographers use these effects exclusively, avoiding post-processing entirely. The effects process quickly without delay.
The camera supports multiple aspect ratios including 3:2, 4:3, 1:1, and 16:9. You can compose directly for different output formats. Square format works beautifully for social media posts. Changing aspect ratio doesn’t require cropping in post-production.
Video Recording Capabilities
Video specifications remain basic compared to dedicated video cameras. The GR IV records 1080p Full HD video at up to 60fps. No 4K option exists, which disappoints some users. However, the target audience primarily shoots stills rather than video.
Stabilization works during video recording, smoothing out minor camera movements. The H.264 codec produces reasonably sized files with acceptable quality. Audio recording uses the internal microphone only. No external microphone input exists on the camera.
Maximum recording time per clip reaches 25 minutes. This limitation stems from file size and heat management. Most users don’t find this restrictive for casual video work. The camera isn’t positioned as a video-first device.
Focus performance during video shows the system’s limitations. Continuous autofocus hunts occasionally, producing distracting focus shifts. Manual focus works better for serious video recording. The focus ring allows smooth manual adjustments.
For social media content and casual shooting, video quality satisfies most needs. The files edit easily and upload quickly. Don’t expect professional videography results from this camera. It handles video as a supplementary feature rather than a primary focus.
Snap Focus Mode and Street Photography
Snap focus mode represents the heart of the GR shooting philosophy. This feature pre-sets focus at a specific distance, typically 1.5 to 5 meters. When you press the shutter, the camera fires instantly without autofocus delay. This eliminates shutter lag completely.
Zone focusing techniques work perfectly with snap mode. You set a small aperture like f/8 or f/11 for deep depth of field. Everything within the zone appears sharp. This approach mimics how classic film cameras operated.
The mode dial now includes a dedicated position for snap focus. You can switch between snap and autofocus instantly. This makes the feature more accessible during shooting. Professional street photographers consider this essential functionality.
Hyperfocal distance calculations become intuitive with practice. The camera displays a focus distance scale when using snap mode. You learn to judge distances quickly. This skill improves your overall photography understanding.
Decisive moment capture becomes possible with snap focus. You can shoot from the hip or without looking at the screen. The camera fires the instant you press the button. This spontaneous approach produces authentic street photographs.
Battery Life and Power Management
The DB-110 battery provides improved endurance over the GR III. Expect approximately 200 shots per charge under normal conditions. Actual performance varies based on usage patterns. Heavy LCD use and WiFi reduce battery life significantly.
USB-C charging allows convenient power management while traveling. You can charge from laptop USB ports, wall adapters, or power banks. The camera charges relatively quickly, reaching full capacity in about 2 hours.
Many photographers carry spare batteries for extended shooting sessions. The small battery size makes carrying extras easy. Third-party batteries work but may not provide identical performance. Official Ricoh batteries ensure optimal camera operation.
Power management settings help extend battery life. You can adjust LCD brightness and sleep timer duration. Turning off WiFi when not needed saves considerable power. The camera enters sleep mode quickly when inactive.
Cold weather performance impacts battery life like all lithium batteries. Keep spare batteries warm in inner pockets. Swapping batteries frequently maintains camera operation in freezing conditions. The magnesium body stays functional even in extreme cold.
Connectivity and Wireless Features
WiFi connectivity enables wireless image transfer to smartphones and tablets. The companion app provides remote control functionality. You can adjust settings and trigger the shutter from your phone. This works well for self-portraits and group shots.
Bluetooth maintains a constant low-power connection for quick pairing. The camera syncs location data from your smartphone automatically. This adds GPS coordinates to image files without draining camera battery. Travel photographers appreciate automatic geotagging.
The dual communication system allows simultaneous WiFi and Bluetooth operation. Images can upload to your phone while you continue shooting. This background transfer saves time during busy shooting sessions. You can share photos immediately without waiting.
Remote control capabilities include shutter release and basic settings adjustment. The app interface works intuitively on both iOS and Android devices. You can review images on your phone’s larger screen. This helps verify focus and composition in the field.
File transfer speeds work reasonably well over WiFi. Transferring RAW files takes longer due to larger file sizes. Most users transfer JPEGs for quick sharing. The camera maintains WiFi connection reliably without frequent disconnects.
Accessories and Essential Add-ons Available on Amazon
The camera ecosystem includes various accessories to enhance functionality. The GF-2 external flash ($119.95) provides additional lighting control. This tiny flash maintains the system’s portability. It offers bounce capability for softer lighting effects.
Camera cases protect your investment while maintaining quick access. Hard cases offer maximum protection during travel. Soft cases provide padding while fitting in pockets easily. Choose based on your carrying preferences and shooting style.
Extra batteries prove essential for serious shooting sessions. The official DB-110 batteries ensure reliable performance. Third-party options cost less but may have shorter lifespan. Consider carrying at least two spare batteries.
Lens accessories include adapter rings for filter attachment. UV filters protect the front element from scratches. Polarizing filters enhance skies and reduce reflections. ND filters enable long exposures in bright conditions.
Hand straps improve security when shooting one-handed. Wrist straps prevent accidental drops. The camera’s compact size makes straps particularly important. Choose comfortable materials that won’t irritate your skin.
Is the Ricoh GR IV Worth the Premium Price?
The $1,499.95 price tag represents a substantial increase from the GR III. This positions the camera against premium compacts and entry-level mirrorless systems. You’re paying for the combination of APS-C sensor quality and pocketable size.
Image quality matches or exceeds many larger cameras. The fixed lens optimized for one focal length outperforms zoom lenses. You get professional results without carrying a camera bag. This convenience has real value for many photographers.
Compared to smartphones, the GR IV delivers dramatically better image quality. The larger sensor, real lens, and manual controls produce superior results. Night photography and challenging lighting reveal the camera’s advantages. Smartphone computational photography can’t match optical performance.
The refined shooting experience justifies the cost for dedicated users. The camera feels like a precision tool rather than consumer electronics. Build quality and attention to detail show throughout the design. This camera will likely last many years of regular use.
Alternative cameras exist at lower prices, but none match the GR IV’s specific combination of features. If pocketability matters, few cameras compete. If size isn’t critical, mirrorless cameras offer more versatility. The GR IV serves a specific niche exceptionally well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Ricoh GR IV shoot 4K video?
No, the Ricoh GR IV maxes out at 1080p Full HD video recording at 60fps. The camera uses H.264 codec for video compression with a 25-minute clip limit per recording. This camera focuses primarily on still photography rather than video capabilities. The lack of 4K disappoints some users but reflects the camera’s core purpose. If video is your priority, consider other cameras designed for content creation.
How does the GR IV compare to the Fujifilm X100VI?
The X100VI costs around $1,600 and features a 40MP sensor with a 23mm f/2 lens (35mm equivalent). It includes a hybrid viewfinder, 4K video, and extensive film simulations. The GR IV is more pocketable, uses a 28mm focal length, and costs $1,500. Both cameras target similar users but offer different shooting experiences. The X100VI provides more features while the GR IV prioritizes ultimate portability.
Can you change lenses on the Ricoh GR IV?
No, the Ricoh GR IV has a fixed 28mm equivalent f/2.8 lens that cannot be removed or changed. This design choice enables the extremely compact body size. Ricoh offers optional conversion lenses that attach to the front for different focal lengths. The fixed lens is optimized specifically for this camera, delivering exceptional image quality. If you need interchangeable lenses, consider a mirrorless camera system instead.
What memory cards work with the GR IV?
The Ricoh GR IV uses microSD memory cards instead of full-size SD cards. Any microSD, microSDHC, or microSDXC card works with the camera. Choose UHS-I or UHS-II rated cards for optimal performance with RAW files and continuous shooting. The camera also includes 53GB of internal storage as backup. Most photographers use 64GB or 128GB cards for ample shooting capacity.
Is the Ricoh GR IV weather sealed?
The Ricoh GR IV features weather-resistant construction with seals protecting against dust and light moisture. However, it’s not fully waterproof or designed for heavy rain exposure. You can shoot in light drizzle or dusty conditions with reasonable confidence. Avoid submerging the camera or exposing it to heavy precipitation. The weather sealing provides peace of mind for unpredictable shooting conditions.
How long does the battery last on the GR IV?
Battery life averages around 200 shots per charge under normal shooting conditions. Actual performance varies based on LCD usage, WiFi activity, and shooting style. Heavy use of the rear screen and wireless features reduces battery life significantly. Most photographers carry at least one spare battery for full-day shooting. The USB-C charging port allows convenient recharging from power banks.
Does the GR IV have image stabilization?
Yes, the Ricoh GR IV features a 5-axis image stabilization system providing up to 6 stops of shake reduction. This compensates for angular blur, rotational movement, and shift blur simultaneously. You can handhold the camera at surprisingly slow shutter speeds with sharp results. The stabilization works during both still photography and video recording. This represents a significant improvement over the GR III’s 3-axis system.
Can you shoot RAW photos with the Ricoh GR IV?
Yes, the Ricoh GR IV captures 14-bit RAW files in DNG format. You can shoot RAW only, JPEG only, or both simultaneously. DNG files open in any major photo editing software without proprietary converters. RAW files provide maximum flexibility for post-processing adjustments. The files contain excellent dynamic range with good shadow and highlight recovery.
