Ricoh GR IV Monochrome

Announced January 14, 2026

Compare Ricoh GR IV Monochrome
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PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.

Reviewer Consensus

Strong

The Ricoh GR IV Monochrome is a highly capable, ultra-compact camera designed specifically for dedicated black-and-white photographers who prioritize image quality and tonal depth. Its pocketable design and specialized monochrome sensor make it a unique tool for street photography, though it remains a niche, premium-priced option.

Weighted from 9 reviewer scores

Pros

  • Exceptional image quality with high detail and tonal depth
  • Ultra-compact and highly portable design
  • Effective and intuitive control layout
  • Integrated physical red filter for dramatic monochrome effects
  • Reliable in-body image stabilization

Cons

  • High price point and premium cost
  • Lacks built-in viewfinder, ND filter, and weather sealing
  • Limited battery life
  • Inconsistent autofocus performance
  • Small form factor may be uncomfortable for some users
  • Launch price $2,199.95 (USD)
  • Sensor 25.74MP APS-C Monochrome CMOS
  • Video 1080p 59.94p
  • Stabilization In-body IS, 5 stops (CIPA)

What the Reviewers Say

All 9 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.

  • PetaPixel 8.5/10

    There is simply nothing else like it on the market that combines beautiful monochromatic imagery in such a capable and ultra-compact body design.

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  • DPReview 83%

    The GR IV Monochrome fills a very specific niche, but does so very well with excellent image quality and controls.

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  • PCMag

    The Monochrome edition qualifies as a tool for specialists who want the best black-and-white digital photos above all else and don't have the budget for a Leica Q3 or M11 Monochrom.

    Read full review

  • B&H

    This isn't a camera for everyone, but I think if you enjoy slowing down, paying attention to light, and looking at your composition, I think the Ricoh GR IV Monochrome is the perfect camera for that.

    Watch video review

  • Samuel Streetlife

    This is for people who are like hardcore into black and white photography, who want the best monochrome files they can get out of a digital camera.

    Watch video review

Specifications

General

Announcement date January 14, 2026
Launch MSRP $2,199.95
Medium Digital
Lens mount Fixed lens
Body type Compact

Sensor & Processing

Effective resolution 25.74MP
Sensor format APS-C
Sensor technology Monochrome CMOS
Sensor dimensions 24 x 16 mm
Color filter array Monochrome (none)
Image processor GR ENGINE 7
Native ISO range Native: 160 to 409,600
Aspect ratio options 1:1, 3:2, 4:3, 16:9

Still Capture

RAW formats DNG
Other still formats DNG, JPEG
Color spaces sRGB, AdobeRGB
Still bit depth 14-bit

Optical Design

Lens construction 7 elements in 5 groups (3 aspherical lens elements)

Focal Length & Aperture

Focal length (wide) 18.3mm
Max aperture f/2.8
Minimum aperture f/16

Autofocus

AF architecture Hybrid phase + contrast detect
Autofocus modes Contrast Detect (sensor), Phase Detect, Multi-area, Center, Selective single-point, Tracking, Single, Continuous, Touch, Face Detection, Live View

Shutter & Exposure

Shutter types Mechanical, Electronic
Shutter speed range 1/16000s to 30s, Bulb
Flash sync speed 1/4000 sec
Maximum electronic shutter speed 1/16000s
Exposure compensation -5 to +5 EV
Metering modes Center-Weighted Average, Highlight Weighted, Multi, Spot

Display & Viewfinder

Rear LCD size 3-inch
Rear LCD resolution 1.037M dots
Rear LCD articulation Fixed

Video

Internal Recording

H.264/MPEG-4 AVC

  • 1920 x 1080 at 23.98/29.97/59.94 fps
External Recording
  • No
Max video resolution 1080p
Max frame rate at max resolution 59.94p
Codecs H.264/MPEG-4 AVC
Recording limit 25 min Maximum
Audio recording 2-Channel

Storage

Card slots 1
Card types 1x microSD/microSDHC/microSDXC (UHS-I)
Internal storage 53 GB

Stabilization

In-body stabilization (IBIS) Yes
IBIS rating 5 stops

Connectivity

USB 1x USB-C Input
HDMI output None
Wi-Fi Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
Bluetooth Bluetooth 5.3
3.5mm mic input No
3.5mm headphone output No
Flash sync terminal No
Hot shoe 1x Hot Shoe

Power

Battery DB-120
CIPA battery life (LCD) 250 shots
CIPA video recording time 240 min
USB charging Yes
USB power delivery Yes

Body

Weight (body only) 228g (8 oz)
Dimensions 109.4 x 61.1 x 32.7 mm (4.31 x 2.41 x 1.29 in)
Weight (with battery and recording media) 228g (8 oz)
Weather sealing None
Chassis material Magnesium alloy
Tripod thread 1/4"-20