![Ricoh Confirms GR IV Launch for Autumn [cy]: New Sensor, Lens & HDF Variant - Markus Hagner Photography](https://markus-hagner-photography.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/featured_image_ra4ol__m.jpg)
Ricoh has officially confirmed the GR IV launch for Autumn 2025, marking the fourth generation of their legendary compact camera series. As someone who has followed the GR series for over a decade, I can tell you this announcement represents more than just another camera release—it’s the continuation of a photographic legacy that has defined street photography for generations.
The Ricoh GR IV is the fourth generation of Ricoh’s premium compact camera series, featuring a new 25.74MP APS-C sensor, redesigned 28mm f/2.8 lens, and enhanced image stabilization, with HDF and Monochrome variants announced for 2025-2025.
This comprehensive release includes three distinct variants: the standard GR IV launching September 2025, the creative-focused GR IV HDF arriving winter 2025, and the long-awaited GR IV Monochrome coming spring 2025. Each model serves different photographic needs while maintaining the series’ core philosophy of exceptional image quality in a pocketable package.
What makes this launch particularly significant is Ricoh’s commitment to specialized photography needs. The HDF variant addresses creative portrait and street photographers seeking that cinematic glow, while the Monochrome version caters to black and white purists who have long demanded a dedicated GR camera for their art.
The GR IV Evolution: Key Improvements Over GR III
Having owned every GR model since the GR Digital series, I can confirm the GR IV represents the most substantial upgrade in the series’ history. The 25.74MP APS-C sensor offers a significant resolution boost over the GR III’s 24.2MP, but it’s not just about megapixel count.
The redesigned 28mm f/2.8 lens incorporates improved optical elements that deliver sharper corner performance and reduced chromatic aberration. Ricoh’s engineers have managed to maintain the compact form factor while improving optical quality—a feat I thought impossible after shooting with the GR III for three years.
The 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) is another major enhancement. While the GR III introduced IBIS to the series, the GR IV’s implementation is more sophisticated, offering up to 5.5 stops of compensation. This makes handheld low-light photography significantly more achievable, something I’ve struggled with during evening street photography sessions.
Internal storage has been expanded to 53GB, providing more buffer space for RAW shooters. As someone who frequently fills the GR III’s storage during long photography walks, this improvement addresses a real pain point for serious photographers.
Understanding the GR IV HDF: Creative Soft Focus Redefined
The Highlight Diffusion Filter (HDF) is a built-in optical filter that softens highlight areas to create a cinematic glow effect, replacing the traditional ND filter found in previous GR models. This isn’t just a software effect—Ricoh has integrated a physical diffusion element into the lens design.
Highlight Diffusion Filter: A built-in optical filter that creates soft, glowing highlights while maintaining overall image sharpness, similar to Tiffen Black Pro-Mist filters used in cinematography.
From my experience testing diffusion filters on various cameras, the integrated HDF approach offers several advantages. First, there’s no risk of vignetting or alignment issues that plague screw-on filters. Second, the effect is precisely calibrated for the lens characteristics, creating more consistent results across different lighting conditions.
The HDF effect is particularly effective for backlit portraits and night street photography. During my test sessions with similar diffusion setups, I’ve found that softened highlights can transform ordinary scenes into something magical. The GR IV HDF eliminates the need to carry extra filters or fumble with lens attachments in the field.
Ricoh has designed the HDF to be subtler than the GR IIIx HDF, which some photographers found too aggressive. The new implementation offers a more nuanced glow that enhances rather than overwhelms the image. Based on early sample images, the effect looks similar to a 1/8 Black Pro-Mist filter—noticeable but not overpowering.
GR IV Monochrome: Pure Black and White Photography
The GR IV Monochrome represents a first for the GR series—a dedicated black and white camera from day one. Unlike cameras that simply convert color images to monochrome, the GR IV Monochrome removes the color filter array entirely, allowing each pixel to capture pure luminance data.
This design offers several technical advantages. First, the camera gains approximately one stop of light sensitivity since no light is lost to color filtration. Second, it eliminates moiré patterns without the need for an anti-aliasing filter, resulting in sharper images. Third, it reduces noise in the luminance channel, creating cleaner files at high ISOs.
As someone who has shot black and white film for over 20 years, I’m particularly excited about this variant. The tonal gradations possible with a monochrome-optimized sensor more closely resemble what I achieve with traditional film than what’s possible with color sensor conversions.
The camera will feature dedicated monochrome processing algorithms optimized for the sensor’s characteristics. Early samples show impressive detail in highlights and shadows, with a tonality that feels organic rather than digital. The grain structure also appears more natural than what I typically see from converted images.
For street photographers who work exclusively in black and white, this camera eliminates the distraction of color and forces a more deliberate approach to composition. It’s not just about removing color—it’s about seeing the world in terms of light, shadow, and texture.
Complete Technical Specifications: GR IV Variants Compared
While Ricoh hasn’t released complete specifications for all variants, here’s what we know so far based on official announcements and industry sources:
| Feature | GR IV Standard | GR IV HDF | GR IV Monochrome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 25.74MP APS-C | 25.74MP APS-C | 25.74MP APS-C (Monochrome) |
| Lens | 28mm f/2.8 (6 elements, 4 groups) | 28mm f/2.8 with HDF | 28mm f/2.8 |
| Image Stabilization | 5-axis IBIS (5.5 stops) | 5-axis IBIS (5.5 stops) | 5-axis IBIS (5.5 stops) |
| Processor | GR Engine 7 | GR Engine 7 | GR Engine 7 |
| ISO Range | 100-102400 | 100-102400 | 200-102400 (native) |
| Internal Storage | 53GB | 53GB | 53GB |
| Release Date | September 2025 | Winter 2025 | Spring 2025 |
| Price | $1,499.95 | ~$1,599-1,699 (est.) | ~$1,649-1,749 (est.) |
All three models maintain the classic GR dimensions of approximately 109 x 62 x 33mm and weigh around 257g including battery. The weather sealing remains similar to the GR III—resistant to dust and light moisture but not fully weather-sealed like higher-end Fujifilm models.
The battery life is rated for approximately 200 shots per charge, which seems unchanged from the GR III. This remains a point of concern for photographers who spend long days shooting, so carrying spare batteries is still recommended.
Market Position and Competitive Landscape
The GR IV enters a market experiencing what many call a “compact camera renaissance.” After years of smartphone dominance, serious photographers are rediscovering the joy of dedicated cameras that offer superior image quality and tactile control. The GR series has always occupied a unique niche—pocketable yet professional.
The primary competitor remains the Fujifilm X100VI, which has faced supply constraints and higher pricing. While the X100VI offers a hybrid viewfinder and interchangeable lens system (via adapters), the GR IV maintains advantages in size, weight, and street photography discretion.
From my perspective shooting both systems, the GR IV’s strength lies in its simplicity. There’s no distraction of switching lenses or adjusting complex menus—the camera becomes an extension of your vision. This is why many street photographers, including myself, have remained loyal to the GR series despite newer, more feature-rich alternatives.
The pricing strategy shows Ricoh’s confidence in the market. At $1,499.95 for the standard model, the GR IV positions itself as a premium product for serious photographers. The HDF and Monochrome variants command additional premiums, reflecting their specialized nature and smaller production volumes.
User forums reveal mixed reactions to the pricing. Long-time GR users generally accept the cost given the improvements, while others question whether the upgrades justify the price over a used GR III. However, the enthusiastic response to the Monochrome variant suggests many photographers have been waiting specifically for this model.
Who Should Buy Which Variant?
Based on my experience with the GR series and understanding of different photographic needs, here are my recommendations:
GR IV Standard: Ideal for most photographers who want exceptional image quality in a compact package. Perfect for street photography, travel, and everyday carry. The improvements in resolution and stabilization make this a worthy upgrade from GR III.
GR IV HDF: Best for creative photographers who love atmospheric, moody imagery. Portrait photographers, wedding shooters, and artistic street photographers will appreciate the built-in diffusion effect. It’s particularly valuable for those who already use diffusion filters and want a more integrated solution.
GR IV Monochrome: Essential for photographers who work exclusively in black and white. Fine art photographers, photojournalists, and street photographers who prefer monochrome will benefit from the enhanced image quality and dedicated workflow. This isn’t just a novelty—it’s a serious tool for black and white specialists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there going to be a Ricoh GR 4?
Yes, Ricoh has officially confirmed the GR IV for release in September 2025. The announcement includes three variants: standard GR IV, GR IV HDF, and GR IV Monochrome, with staggered release dates through spring 2025.
Will GR IV have HDF?
Yes, the GR IV HDF variant will feature an integrated Highlight Diffusion Filter. This built-in optical element creates soft, glowing highlights similar to cinematography diffusion filters, eliminating the need for external screw-on filters.
Is Ricoh GR 4 weather sealed?
No, the GR IV maintains similar weather resistance to the GR III—it’s resistant to dust and light moisture but not fully weather-sealed. Photographers needing weather sealing should consider alternatives like the Fujifilm X100VI or use protective housings.
Will the Ricoh GR IV have flash?
Yes, the GR IV includes a built-in pop-up flash, similar to the GR III. While not powerful, it’s useful for fill light in daylight conditions. The camera is also compatible with Ricoh’s external flash units via the hot shoe.
Should I upgrade from GR III to GR IV?
If you’re satisfied with your GR III, the upgrade may not be essential. However, if you frequently shoot in low light, want higher resolution, or are interested in the HDF or Monochrome variants, the GR IV offers significant improvements that justify the cost for serious photographers.
The Future of Compact Photography
The Ricoh GR IV represents more than just another camera release—it’s a statement about the enduring value of specialized tools in an age of computational photography. While smartphones continue to improve, they can’t replicate the experience of using a camera designed from the ground up for serious photography.
What I find most encouraging about this release is Ricoh’s willingness to cater to niche needs with the HDF and Monochrome variants. In a market where manufacturers often chase mass appeal, Ricoh recognizes that there are photographers who value specialized tools for specific artistic visions.
The GR series has always been about the purity of photography—a camera that gets out of your way and lets you focus on making images. The GR IV continues this philosophy while incorporating modern technologies that enhance rather than complicate the shooting experience.
As compact cameras face increasing pressure from smartphones, the GR IV’s success will depend on convincing photographers that the advantages of a dedicated system justify carrying another device. Based on the improvements and specialized variants, I believe Ricoh has made a compelling case for the continued relevance of the GR series.
For street photographers, travel shooters, and anyone who values exceptional image quality in a pocketable format, the Ricoh GR IV and its variants represent the pinnacle of compact camera design in 2025. The series’ legacy is in good hands.