RICOH GR IV Monochrome
RICOH GR IV Monochrome
RICOH GR IV Monochrome Digital Camera
A compact camera with an APS-C monochrome sensor and a fixed 28mm focal length.
The RICOH GR IV Monochrome is a compact digital camera equipped with an APS-C size CMOS monochrome sensor with a resolution of 25.74Mpx. The fixed lens, with a 28mm focal length and an f/2.8 aperture, renders the scene directly onto the sensor without a colour filter. The integrated 5-axis in-body image stabilisation effectively corrects for camera shake when shooting handheld. For video recording, it offers Full HD resolution at up to 60p with stereo sound. The magnesium alloy construction weighs just 228g without the battery and card. Operation is made easy by the 3" fixed touchscreen display.
APS-C
Sensor size
25.74Mpx
Sensor resolution
No Mount
Lens mount
In-body (IBIS)
Image stabilisation
micro SD / micro SDHC / micro SDXC
Memory card
Key Features of the RICOH GR IV Monochrome Digital Camera
- APS-C size CMOS monochrome sensor
- 25.74Mpx sensor resolution without a colour filter
- Fast autofocus with face and eye detection
- Full HD video recording with stereo sound
- 3" fixed touchscreen display
- Wireless Wi-Fi interface and USB-C connector
- Powered by a DB-120 battery with a 1800mAh capacity
- Magnesium alloy body weighing 228g
Monochrome Sensor for Pure Detail
The APS-C size CMOS sensor does not feature an anti-aliasing (AA) filter. Each pixel captures brightness information directly, without the need for colour interpolation. This system delivers sharp rendering and smooth tonal gradation. Sensitivity can be set up to ISO 409,600. Image processing is handled by the GR ENGINE 7 processor.
Creative Possibilities of Black-and-White Photography
The integrated red filter in the lens can be activated with a single control to enhance the contrast of the sky and clouds. Solid mode uses a steep tonal curve for a clean-edged look. Grainy mode creates a distinct grainy effect reminiscent of classic film stocks. These tools expand the possibilities for black-and-white expression directly in the camera.
Ergonomics and Matt Black Design
The magnesium alloy construction with a matt black finish underscores the camera's monochrome focus. A deeper grip and a modified thumb rest make one-handed holding easier. The optimised layout of buttons and dials speeds up exposure adjustments. The EV compensation button responds instantly to a thumb press. The body weighs only 228g.
Electronic Shutter and Instant Response
In addition to the mechanical shutter, you can use the high-speed electronic shutter with speeds up to 1/16,000s, which allows for shooting with an open f/2.8 aperture in very bright light. The electronic shutter operates in the range of 1/3,200–1/16,000s at an F2.8 aperture. The camera starts up in approximately 0.6 seconds from power-on, thanks to the lens barrel and optimised startup sequence. The fast startup is complemented by a reduced time for lens retraction after taking a shot.
Five-Axis In-Body Stabilisation
The integrated Shake Reduction mechanism corrects sensor shake on 5 axes. The system suppresses angular, rotational, and shift blur when shooting up close. This stabilisation system offers up to 6 stops of exposure time compensation according to CIPA standards. Stabilisation helps maintain sharp images even at longer shutter speeds without using a tripod.
Fast Focusing and Snapshot Mode
The hybrid autofocus system combines phase detection and contrast evaluation. The Full Press Snap function instantly focuses at a preset distance when the shutter is fully pressed. Face and eye detection automatically focuses on the person being photographed. The touchscreen allows for quick selection of the focus point with a simple tap.
RICOH GR IV Monochrome Camera Review
Although compact cameras have been largely pushed out of the market by mobile phones, and some manufacturers have even stopped producing them altogether, they have recently been making a comeback. This is especially true for the more interesting and exceptional models that are significantly different from mobiles and earlier compacts. The Ricoh GR IV is precisely such a compact camera, unique in many ways, and therefore fully deserving of its own detailed user review. As its name suggests, this is the fourth generation, and it stands out primarily for its large sensor, fixed lens with a wide aperture, and yet, at the same time, its truly minimalist dimensions and controls. You can find the full review here.
Specifications
Type and function
Sensor
Video
Focusing
Display
Dimensions and weight
Memory and storage
Battery
Colour
Inputs and outputs
Package contents
Lens
Specifications can be changed without notice. Images are for illustrative purposes only.
