Ricoh GR IV
Announced September 1, 2025
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 is a highly refined, pocketable APS-C camera that excels as a discreet tool for street photography. While it offers significant improvements in lens sharpness, autofocus speed, and internal storage, it remains a niche device defined by its fixed-lens design and lack of modern video or weather-sealing features.
Weighted from 18 reviewer scores
Pros
- Faster startup, autofocus, and overall responsiveness
- Improved lens optics with superior edge-to-edge sharpness
- Ultra-compact, pocketable, and lightweight design
- Generous 53GB internal storage and microSD support
- Effective five-axis image stabilization
Cons
- Lack of weather sealing and dust protection
- Limited video capabilities and lack of 4K recording
- Mediocre battery life and slow charging
- Inconsistent or sluggish autofocus performance
- Fixed rear screen with no tilting or articulating mechanism
- Launch price $1,499.95 (USD)
- Sensor 25.74MP APS-C CMOS
- Video 1080p 59.94p
- Stabilization In-body IS, 5 stops (CIPA)
What the Reviewers Say
All 18 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- PetaPixel 9/10
Yes. This is a smart and sleek companion for any street shooter, and the GR IV is the most pleasant and capable GR experience so far.
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If you need real APS-C image quality in a truly pocketable camera, then this is it.
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It is the smallest, highest quality camera combination I think that's out there.
- WIRED 8/10
If you want an APS-C sensor that legitimately fits in your pocket, offers amazing one-handed control, and produces excellent images, the [...] Ricoh GR IV is for you.
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The Ricoh GR IV refines a proven design with meaningful updates to image quality, handling, autofocus, and storage, while keeping its trademark compactness.
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The GR IV is the best iteration yet: It focuses faster, has better stabilization, improves upon the GR III's already fantastic imaging engine, and is a teensy bit smaller [...]
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For me, there isn't enough here to justify upgrading to what is a 20% pricier successor – but I do have my eye on the niche monochrome version that's in the pipeline. As a longtime GR III user, I've been looking forward to the release of the GR IV.
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Like, if you're in love with this, if you love the 90s vibe, if you want to create those kinds of pictures, and you aren't stunned by paying $1,500 for what is technically a very mediocre camera, then get it.
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This camera, it inspires you to just get shooting and be in the moment.
- CNET 8.9/10
For travel or street photography, the GR IV is a gem [...] Ricoh definitely took an “ain’t broke, don’t fix” approach to the GR IV.
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For me, the Ricoh GR IV is going to become my new default daily carry camera.
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[T]he Ricoh GR IV is for photographers who prize stealth, speed and a transparent tool over bells and whistles; if you live at 28 mm and shoot from the hip, this is the most refined GR to date.
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[I] genuinely love it. I think the price point is ludicrous.
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Do I like it more than the GR III and GR IIIx? Yes, I do because they improved basically they improved eight things that I asked for in my previous wish list videos.
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So far, I'm very impressed with the Ricoh GR IV and I think it is an amazing street photography camera.
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If you do not yet own a Ricoh GR, purchase the newest one. If black and white is your passion [...] Ricoh monochrome is, in my opinion, the best camera on the planet.
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[T]he Ricoh GR IV is very impressive. It's a pocketable camera that doesn't compromise on image quality, low light performance, or creative control.
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The GR IV justifies its price if you appreciate its unique shooting philosophy, but it won’t convert people who were already unconvinced by the GR concept.
