Ricoh GR IV Monochrome Digital Camera

The Ricoh GR IV Monochrome, built for black and white photography, sits alongside the GR IV and GR IV HDF as the most specialised model in Ricoh’s compact range. It pairs a 25.74-megapixel, AA-filterless monochrome APS-C sensor with an 18.3 mm f2.8 lens and built-in red filter, recording luminance directly for crisp detail, smooth tonal gradation, and controlled contrast. Fast autofocus and five-axis stabilisation keep it responsive and discreet for street, travel, and everyday photography.

Ricoh GR IV Monochrome Digital Camera Key Features:

• GR-series compact camera dedicated to black and white photography
• Monochrome 25.74MP CMOS sensor for sharp detail and smooth tonal gradation
• Newly developed GR 7 engine for improved processing speeds
• Redesigned 18.3mm f2.8 lens (28mm in 35mm equivalent)
• Built-in physical red filter activated via the Fn button
• Lens features 7 elements in 5 groups for enhanced clarity
• Includes 3 aspherical elements for reduced distortion
• Full HD Movie recording (1920 x 1080 pixels 60fps) in H.264 format
• Maximum ISO of 409600 for high light sensitivity
• Hybrid AF system (phase-matching and contrast detection)
• 5-axis image stabiliser with 6 stops of compensation
• Supports RAW (DNG) 14-bit and JPEG (Exif 2.3) image formats
• 3.0-inch TFT LCD monitor with 1037K dots resolution
• AA (anti-aliasing) Filter Simulator to reduce false colour and Moiré
• Supports the GR WORLD app for smart devices

What’s new?

Ricoh’s GR IV Monochrome takes a different path from both the standard GR IV and the GR IV HDF. The original GR IV uses a conventional colour sensor, while the GR IV HDF retains that sensor and adds a Highlight Diffusion Filter for softer highlights. The Monochrome version replaces both approaches with a monochrome-dedicated APS-C CMOS sensor. With no colour filter array or interpolation, each pixel records luminance directly, producing higher perceived sharpness, smoother tonal gradation, and more natural fine detail than colour-based models converted to black and white.

A built-in physical red filter, unique to the Monochrome model, shapes skies, foliage and skin tones optically rather than through processing. Dedicated monochrome Image Control modes further refine contrast and grain specifically for black-and-white output. Apart from the absence of the ND filter found in the standard GR IV, the handling remains familiar, with this version aimed at photographers who want to capture in monochrome from the outset rather than reinterpret colour files later.

A sensor for monochrome capture

The Ricoh GR IV Monochrome features a new monochrome-dedicated anti-aliasing (AA) APS-C CMOS sensor with approximately 25.74 million effective pixels. Each pixel records brightness directly, without passing through red, green, or blue filters like in general colour sensors. The monochrome sensor produces cleaner edges, finer detail, and a more continuous tonal roll-off, especially in mid-tones and highlights for black-and-white shots. Fine textures read more clearly, and high-ISO grain appears more photographic than processed.

Built-in red filter

A physical red filter is built directly into the lens unit and can be switched on or off instantly. It behaves exactly as a traditional red filter would on black-and-white film, darkening blue skies, improving the separation of clouds, and increasing contrast in foliage and skin tones. Because the filter sits in the optical path, the effect is visible in real time, making exposure and composition easier to judge on the spot.

Monochrome Image Control with character

Ricoh has developed Image Control profiles specifically for monochrome work. “Solid” applies a firm tonal curve with crisp edge definition, giving images a clean, graphic feel. “Grainy” keeps highlights from blowing and shadows from blocking while introducing visible grain that holds together even on small screens. These controls feel tuned for photographers who want to shape mood at capture rather than relying on heavy processing later.

Familiar GR handling, refined for focus

The GR IV Monochrome keeps the GR IV series’ defining traits: quick start-up, responsive autofocus and intuitive handling. Five-axis in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) provides up to six stops of compensation, which is particularly useful when working in low light or while moving. The electronic shutter extends up to 1/16000s, allowing the lens to stay wide open in bright conditions without resorting to external filters. Like its counterparts, the GR IV monochrome suits photographers capturing street scenes, everyday life, architecture, and quiet landscapes, where the camera’s fast response and discreet size let you work instinctively and close to the subject.

A design that matches the intent

The GR IV Monochrome is finished with a deliberately restrained exterior that sets it apart from the standard GR IV and GR IV HDF. The magnesium-alloy body, shutter release button and front ring cap are all finished in the same matte black coating, reducing reflections and giving the camera a uniform, tactile feel in the hand. The front GR logo is a semi-gloss black, offering a subtle contrast without drawing attention, while the power button illumination changes to white rather than green. Together, these small but deliberate choices reinforce the camera’s monochrome focus.

What’s in the box?

• 1 x Ricoh GR IV Monochrome Digital Camera
• 1 x Rechargeable Battery DB-120
• 1 x USB Cable I-USB198
• 1 x Hand Strap O-ST198

FAQs:

What makes the GR IV Monochrome different from converting colour files to black and white?

A colour sensor records separate red, green, and blue data that must be interpolated before conversion to monochrome. The GR IV Monochrome’s sensor records luminance directly at every pixel, which produces higher perceived sharpness and smoother tonal gradation. Fine detail and textures hold together more naturally, especially at higher sensitivities, which is noticeable in prints and close viewing.

How does the built-in red filter affect exposure?

When enabled, the red filter reduces overall light transmission, so the camera compensates automatically. It provides stronger sky contrast and clearer separation without requiring manual adjustments. Because the filter is built into the lens, there’s no need to carry or mount external filters.

Is the GR IV Monochrome suitable for low-light shooting?

The monochrome sensor supports sensitivities up to ISO 409600, and the absence of colour noise makes high-ISO images look cleaner and more cohesive. Combined with five-axis stabilisation, it performs well for handheld work in dimly lit streets, interiors, or night scenes.

Does the camera still use the same lens as the standard GR IV?

The GR IV Monochrome uses the same 18.3mm f2.8 lens design as the GR IV. The lens has a 7-element, 5-group design with three aspherical elements that minimise distortion and chromatic aberration while maintaining edge-to-edge sharpness and exceptional contrast for high-resolution imaging. On the monochrome sensor, that resolving power is more apparent, particularly in fine lines and textures.

Can I shoot RAW and apply my own monochrome processing later?

Yes. The GR IV Monochrome records RAW files that preserve the full tonal range captured by the sensor. You can use the in-camera Image Control modes for a finished look, or process the files later with complete control over contrast and grain.

How does the battery perform on the Ricoh GR IV Monochrome?

The RICOH GR IV Monochrome uses the new 1800mAh DB-120 battery, rated for approximately 250 shots per charge under standard testing conditions. This battery life typically covers a full day of street or documentary shooting, especially if you’re not constantly reviewing images. Monochrome capture is relatively efficient, but extended use of image review, wireless connectivity, or stabilisation will shorten runtime.