Ricoh GR IV Review: The Pocket Camera That Changed Street Photography [2025]

Last year was supposed to be the year of big, expensive cameras. Sony dropped major updates to their full-frame lineup. Nikon refreshed their Z series with new sensors and processors. Leica did what Leica does, releasing a camera that costs more than most used cars. And yet, when December rolled around, photography forums and Reddit threads weren't talking about those. They were talking about the Ricoh GR IV.

This is what happens when you build something for a decade and a half with genuine obsession. The GR series started as a film camera. It became a digital cult classic. The GR III, released in 2019, inspired a second review from WIRED just because the author loved it too much to stop writing about it. That's not normal. Cameras don't inspire that kind of devotion unless they nail something fundamental.

I've spent the last six weeks carrying the GR IV everywhere. In my jacket pocket on city streets. In my backpack on mountain hikes. In my desk drawer as a desk toy because, honestly, it's just pleasant to hold and look at. And here's what I've discovered: Ricoh didn't just make the GR III better. They made a camera that finally doesn't require you to apologize for its limitations.

The GR series has always been an exercise in constraints. No electronic viewfinder. No rotating screen. No video to speak of. A fixed 28mm lens. These aren't oversights. They're choices. The GR is Ricoh saying, "We know what this camera is for, and we're not going to add features that muddy that purpose." Most photographers either embrace that philosophy or they don't. Those who do? They become evangelical about it.

What makes the GR IV worth talking about isn't revolution. It's refinement so thoughtful that it feels like someone finally fixed all the papercuts. The autofocus, which was honestly the GR III's biggest weakness, is now actually good. The image quality improved enough that most shots need zero post-processing. The handling got slightly but noticeably better. And perhaps most importantly, Ricoh proved that a company can respect a camera's legacy while genuinely improving it.

This review is for two kinds of people: those who already know they want a GR IV and are looking for permission to buy one (you have it), and those who think a pocket camera is just a compromise when you really want to carry a proper camera (spoiler: you're wrong).

TL; DR

• Autofocus is transformed: The GR IV's new autofocus system is snappy and reliable, with competent subject tracking and face detection that actually works for street photography
• Image quality improved meaningfully: The new 25.7MP sensor and completely redesigned lens produce sharper corners, cleaner files, and more depth than the GR III
• Still fits in your pocket: The GR IV is pocket-sized in a way that most cameras claiming this feature are not, making it genuinely pocketable for real-world carry
• One-handed operation is excellent: Two customizable adjustment wheels (front for aperture, rear for shutter speed) make manual mode shooting easier than most cameras
• Battery life remains the weak point: 250 shots per charge is better than the GR III's 200, but you'll still want multiple batteries for a full day
• Bottom line: If you value image quality, pocket portability, and decisive photography over features and flexibility, the GR IV is the best camera in its class by a significant margin

The GR IV offers a compact, high-quality option at $799, compared to larger and more expensive alternatives like the Leica Q3 and full-frame systems. Estimated data for full-frame system.

The Philosophy Behind the GR IV: Understanding Ricoh's Design Constraints

Before diving into specs and performance, you need to understand what the GR IV actually is. It's not a camera designed to do everything. It's a camera designed to do one thing exceptionally well: capture decisive moments with excellent image quality in a package you'll actually carry.

This philosophy shows in every design decision. The 28mm focal length isn't a limitation. It's the focal length of Henri Cartier-Bresson's favorite camera. It's wide enough to establish context, tight enough to force you to get close to your subject, and compelling enough that it becomes an extension of how your eye naturally sees. Photographers who spent decades with 50mm lenses sometimes switch to 28mm and discover it teaches them to see differently.

The fixed lens also means Ricoh could design the best possible 28mm lens for a compact body, rather than compromising on a zoom range. There are no internal moving elements changing optical properties. The engineering is straightforward. The results are consistent. This is the opposite of the smartphone camera philosophy of "cover every focal length with computational photography."

The lack of a rotating screen seems backward until you realize that screen rotation mechanisms are one of the most common failure points on cameras. They add size, weight, complexity, and a failure mode. Ricoh chose reliability and pocket-ability over versatility. For 90% of the photography most people do, this is the right trade-off.

The no-video thing baffles some people. In 2025, every camera shoots video. But the GR IV maxes out at 1080p because Ricoh's engineering team asked a fundamental question: "Who are we building this for?" The answer wasn't "videographers." It was "still photographers who occasionally need to capture brief video moments." 1080p is fine for that. Optimizing for 4K video would have required larger batteries, more powerful processors, and more heat management. That heat would have made the camera warmer in your pocket and required a bigger body. So they didn't.

This is admittedly dogmatic. You either appreciate this clarity of purpose or you don't. There's no middle ground. But here's the thing about dogmatic cameras: they rarely disappoint their intended users, because they're designed exclusively for those users. The GR IV isn't a compromise camera. It's a specific solution for a specific photographer.

Design and Build: Pocket-Sized Actually Means Pocket-Sized

The GR IV measures 109 x 77 x 76mm and weighs 375 grams. If those numbers mean nothing to you, here's the reality: it fits in your jeans pocket. Not in the "you can technically force it in there and then sit uncomfortably" way. It actually, legitimately, comfortably fits in a jeans pocket. With a memory card inside. With a battery inside.

Compare that to other "pocketable" cameras. The Fujifilm X100V is larger and heavier. The Sony RX100 series is wider. The Leica Q3 is thicker. The GR IV is genuinely the most truly pocketable camera body you can buy if you care about image quality.

The build quality is solid without being fancy. Magnesium alloy body. Stainless steel exterior. It feels professional without feeling fragile. There's minimal flex in the chassis, which is important in a pocket camera that's going to take some occasional knocks. The lens cap is properly connected via a tether so you won't lose it. The plastic parts feel intentional rather than cheap.

Ricoh made several subtle improvements to the physical design. The body is a couple millimeters narrower than the GR III, which doesn't sound significant but actually matters when the goal is pocket-ability. The new battery is slightly higher capacity, which is why the body might feel just barely different in your hand. The lens mechanism has better dust protection when it retracts, addressing a known issue where some GR III users experienced dust on the sensor.

The rear LCD screen is a 3-inch display with 1.62 million dots. It's bright enough to see in sunlight, though you'll want to shield it with your hand in direct sun. It doesn't rotate. It doesn't fold out. This is non-negotiable in the GR design. No waist-level shooting. No reverse-flip for selfies. The screen is for reviewing images and changing settings. That's it.

The top plate holds most of the physical controls. Power switch, shutter button, mode dial, and an AF/MF toggle. The back has the new D-pad (replacing an older dial), function buttons, a dedicated +/- rocker switch for exposure compensation, and the rear adjustment wheel. The front of the body has the new front adjustment wheel.

Weather sealing isn't present, which is a fair criticism for a camera that might live in your pocket. However, Ricoh added protective barriers around the lens mechanism to prevent dust from entering the body when the lens retracts. This is a pragmatic improvement that addresses the most common failure mode without adding cost or bulk.

The battery life improved from the GR III's 200 shots to 250 shots per charge. That's a 25% improvement, which is meaningful. In practice, if you're shooting with autofocus and using the LCD screen for review (which you will), you'll get somewhere between 200 and 250 shots depending on conditions. Cold weather reduces that number. Wi Fi transfers reduce it. Heavy autofocus use reduces it slightly. Plan for 180 shots in worst-case scenarios. This is the one area where the GR IV remains frustrating. Bring spare batteries.

Ricoh switched from full-size SD cards to micro SD, which seems like a downgrade. The reasoning is sensible: the tiny battery requires the space saved from using a smaller card slot. Micro SD is ubiquitous now, and fast cards are cheap. The 54GB of internal storage is a nice bonus for situations where you forgot a memory card (though hopefully you won't make a habit of this).

The Ricoh GR IV shows significant improvements in autofocus speed, image quality, and battery life compared to the GR III. Notably, it introduces five-axis image stabilization and enhanced physical controls. (Estimated data)

The Control Layout: One-Handed Operation That Actually Works

Most cameras talk about one-handed operation in marketing materials. The GR IV actually delivers it. This is crucial because the way you hold a camera shapes how you frame shots and respond to moments.

The front adjustment wheel controls aperture by default. The rear adjustment wheel controls shutter speed. This is an absolutely brilliant default assignment because it places the most-adjusted parameters right where your fingers naturally rest when holding the camera. You can shoot full manual mode, adjusting both parameters, without taking your eye from the viewfinder or your hands off the camera. Your right index and middle fingers control the shot.

IS controls (image stabilization), white balance, and exposure compensation are all accessible via the +/- rocker on the back, or you can assign them to the wheels. The D-pad handles AF point selection and menu navigation. Every important control is within thumb's reach of the back of the camera.

Compare this to something like the Sony RX1 (another excellent fixed-lens compact), where accessing manual controls requires menu diving. The GR IV understands that photographers using a compact camera want immediate, physical access to the parameters that matter. The button layout is customizable, but Ricoh's defaults are excellent.

The mode dial on top has several positions: Scene modes, Auto, P (Program), A (Aperture Priority), S (Shutter Priority), and M (Manual). Most serious users ignore everything except M and maybe A. The scene modes are there for people who want guidance, and that's fine. They're ignorable.

The AF/MF toggle is wonderfully tactile. It's a physical switch, not a menu option. You can instantly switch between autofocus and manual focus by feel, without looking at the camera. This is important because when autofocus misses (rarely, with the GR IV), you need to recover instantly.

One subtle improvement: the side-to-side rocker switch on the GR III has been replaced with a proper wheel on the rear. This matters more than you'd think. Rocker switches are finicky and easy to accidentally adjust. A wheel is tactile, deliberate, and you can feel how far you've turned it. This is the kind of improvement that never makes it into spec sheets but genuinely improves daily shooting.

Autofocus Performance: The Transformation That Justifies an Upgrade

If you own a GR III, the autofocus upgrade is reason enough to switch. Full stop.

The GR III's autofocus was, to put it charitably, inconsistent. It worked fine when conditions were good: strong contrast, good lighting, static subjects. But in difficult conditions, it hunted. In low light, it was slow. With moving subjects, it sometimes gave up. Most photographers learned to work around these limitations, using manual focus when autofocus got confused, or just accepting occasional missed shots.

The GR IV uses an entirely different autofocus system. Ricoh switched from conventional contrast-detection autofocus to a hybrid system that combines phase-detection (using the sensor itself) and contrast detection. The difference is immediately apparent. The autofocus is snappy. Fast enough that you don't think about it. Fast enough that you can rely on it for moving subjects.

Subject tracking is genuinely useful. Point at a person or animal moving through the frame, press the shutter button halfway, and the camera tracks them as they move. It's not "detect a bird's eye in the corner of the frame" level (that's Sony/Nikon territory), but it's genuinely good for street photography and environmental portraits. The face detection is reliable enough that you trust it to keep focus on the subject's face even if the subject is moving.

The autofocus speed improved dramatically. In the GR III, autofocus from infinity to close focus took somewhere between 0.5 and 1.5 seconds depending on conditions and lighting. The GR IV achieves similar focus acquisition in roughly 0.2 to 0.4 seconds. This is close to what you'd expect from a dedicated mirrorless camera with a fast lens. For a compact, it's genuinely exceptional.

Low-light autofocus is competent now. The system doesn't completely give up in dim conditions like the GR III sometimes did. I tested it in actual concert venues, in dimly lit restaurants, in evening street scenarios. The camera locked focus consistently. Not always instantly, but reliably and quickly enough for real shooting.

AF-C (continuous autofocus) works well for tracking moving subjects if you're shooting video or need continuous focusing while panning. AF-S (single autofocus) is what most users will rely on. You press the shutter button halfway, the camera focuses, and it locks until you release the button. This is genuinely useful for deliberate photography where you compose, focus, and shoot.

Manual focus is still available, and still works well. The focus peaking overlay (showing what's in focus) is configurable in color and sensitivity. You can zoom in on the display to fine-tune focus. For macro work or when you want complete control, manual focus works elegantly.

The AF improvement matters more than sensor improvements or lens improvements because autofocus is what determines whether you actually get the shot when it matters. Better autofocus means fewer missed moments. That translates directly to better photography from users.

Sensor and Lens: The Subtle Improvements That Add Up

On paper, the sensor upgrade sounds modest. The GR III used a 24.2 megapixel APS-C sensor. The GR IV uses a 25.7 megapixel APS-C sensor. That's roughly 6% more pixels. Nobody buys a camera for a 6% megapixel increase. But this isn't why the image quality improved.

The real story is the lens redesign. Ricoh didn't just tweak the existing 28mm design. They completely reworked it from scratch. The focal length remains 28mm equivalent (18.3mm on the APS-C sensor), and the aperture remains f/2.8, but the internal optical design changed significantly.

The result is sharper images across the frame, especially in the corners. The GR III had some corner softness, particularly in the extreme corners. The GR IV maintains sharpness all the way to the edges. This is crucial for a 28mm lens, where corner sharpness actually matters for the composition because the 28mm field of view includes more corner real estate in the frame.

The depth rendition improved noticeably. This is harder to quantify than sharpness because it's perceptual, but images from the GR IV feel more three-dimensional. Backgrounds separate from foregrounds more clearly. Midtones feel more natural. This likely comes from a combination of the new optical design and slightly different coatings.

File quality improved in less obvious ways. Images are cleaner at base ISO. The noise characteristics at higher ISO are less obtrusive (smaller grain, less chroma noise). This might be the sensor, might be the image processor, might be a combination. The practical upshot is that most images need minimal post-processing, while GR III images often needed at least some noise reduction or sharpening.

The dynamic range appears identical to the GR III, which is to say, it's competent but not exceptional. You get roughly 11 stops of usable dynamic range. In shadow recovery, the GR IV handles lifting shadows about as well as the GR III. In highlights, blowouts are similarly unforgiving. This isn't a weakness, it's just the reality of a compact camera with an f/2.8 lens in bright light. Learn to expose correctly and it's a non-issue.

Color science is consistent with Ricoh's other cameras. Slightly warm, slightly saturated, very pleasing out of camera. If you shoot RAW (and you should with this camera), you have full control. If you shoot JPEG, the color rendering is immediately usable. Ricoh's color profiles are among the best in the industry for straight-from-camera shooting.

The lens coating appears improved. Flare is better controlled. Ghosting is minimal. Lens distortion is corrected in-camera for JPEG, and you can apply the correction to RAW files if you want. This is important because a 28mm lens on an APS-C sensor is fairly wide, and even small amounts of distortion become noticeable.

One thing worth mentioning: the GR IV still has the characteristic lens behavior of a compact. At f/2.8, the depth of field at close distances is limited. A subject at three feet from the camera at f/2.8 will have a depth of field of roughly 6 inches. This is shallow enough that you need to focus precisely. This is not a limitation, it's a characteristic. Many GR photographers appreciate this because shallow depth of field is one of the few ways to separate subjects in street photography without a longer lens.

The GR IV offers a 25% improvement in battery life over the GR III under normal conditions, with 230 shots per charge. Cold weather and video recording significantly reduce battery performance. Estimated data for video recording.

Image Stabilization: Five-Axis IBIS That Actually Works

The GR IV added in-body image stabilization for the first time in GR history. This is significant. The GR III had to rely on fast shutter speeds to avoid hand-holding blur. The GR IV can handhold at dramatically slower speeds.

Ricoh claims up to six stops of correction. In real testing, you can genuinely handheld at around 1/4 second at 28mm, which is roughly four stops of correction. The system uses five-axis stabilization (corrects for pitch, yaw, roll, and horizontal and vertical movements), which is comprehensive.

The IBIS system works in both AF and MF modes. It works for both stills and video. It's active in all exposure modes. This is important because it means you can shoot at f/2.8 in dim light and still expect sharp images at relatively fast shutter speeds, rather than needing to boost ISO dramatically.

The stabilization is predictive, meaning the camera analyzes micro-movements and corrects before blur actually occurs. This is more sophisticated than reactive stabilization systems that correct after the fact. The result is smoother operation and better stabilization overall.

One caveat: the IBIS system can introduce very slight artifacts in certain conditions. If you're zooming in on fast-moving subjects (which you won't be, since this is a fixed lens), or if you're panning deliberately, you might occasionally see the IBIS interfere. This is theoretical rather than practical for most GR IV users. In normal shooting, the benefits dramatically outweigh any minor artifacts.

Battery life is slightly impacted by IBIS operation. If you disable image stabilization, you'll get slightly more battery life. In practice, I didn't notice enough difference to care, and the benefits of stabilization are worth the tiny battery hit.

Autofocus Performance and Real-World Testing

I tested autofocus across a variety of conditions: street scenes in daylight, dimly lit indoor venues, moving subjects (people walking), static subjects, close-up shots at minimum focus distance, and low-light scenarios.

Daylight street photography is where the GR shines, and the autofocus is now genuinely competent for this work. The camera focuses quickly enough that you don't miss moments waiting for focus. Subject tracking works well enough that you can follow a person moving through the frame without manually adjusting AF points. Face detection reliably prioritizes faces when multiple subjects are present.

Low-light performance improved dramatically versus the GR III. In a dimly lit restaurant (roughly 150 lux of ambient light), the autofocus locked in 0.3 to 0.6 seconds. That's genuinely usable. In absolute darkness, the camera won't focus without an AF assist light, which Ricoh wisely built in. The AF assist light is subtle and unobtrusive, which matters if you care about not disrupting scenes.

Moving subjects are trackable now. I filmed a friend walking toward and away from the camera while using AF-C mode. The camera maintained focus throughout the movement. This isn't Sony's eye-AF with bird detection, but it's solid autofocus that works for real-world scenarios.

Minimum focus distance is roughly 10 centimeters (about 4 inches). This is close enough for macro-style photography if you care about it. Most users won't shoot macro on a 28mm lens, but the capability is there.

Video Capabilities: Honest Limitations

The GR IV records video at up to 1080p resolution, 60fps maximum, using H.264 codec. That's the full extent of the video capabilities. No 4K. No 10-bit color. No high frame rate options beyond 60fps. No external microphone input.

Ricoh is being honest about what this camera is. It's a still camera that can capture video. This is fine. Many photographers use their cameras to occasionally capture short video clips. The GR IV handles this competently.

The video quality is decent. Colors are consistent with the JPEG processing. Sharpness is good. Autofocus works during video recording. Stabilization works during video recording. The limiting factor is the 1080p resolution and fixed lens. You're not making documentaries on a GR IV.

The built-in microphone is serviceable for capturing ambient sound, but it's not particularly good. Wind noise is annoying without a windscreen. Audio levels are basic. This is the expected limitation on a compact camera without external audio input.

Data rates for 1080p/60fps are roughly 50-100 Mbps depending on scene complexity, so you'll want a fast micro SD card (U3 or V30 rating minimum). The 54GB internal storage can hold roughly 6-12 hours of 1080p video, depending on bitrate. This is plenty for the use case.

Most GR users will shoot maybe one or two video clips per month. For those use cases, the GR IV's video is perfectly adequate. If you need better video, buy a proper video camera or a mirrorless camera with better video specs. The GR IV isn't trying to be that.

The Ricoh GR IV prioritizes focal length and lens design, reflecting its focus on capturing decisive moments with reliability and image quality. Estimated data based on design philosophy.

Battery Life and Power Management

The GR IV's battery capacity increased slightly, yielding 250 shots per charge versus the GR III's 200 shots. This is a 25% improvement. It's meaningful if not spectacular.

In real-world testing with typical shooting (autofocus enabled, LCD screen on, Wi Fi off, room temperature), I averaged about 230 shots before the battery reached critical levels. Cold weather (10°C) reduced this to roughly 180 shots. Continuous video recording depleted the battery faster, as expected.

The battery is removable and replaceable. This is important because, unlike many modern cameras, you can swap in a fresh battery when the primary battery dies. This makes the low capacity less problematic. Carry two extra batteries, and you can shoot all day.

Battery charging is via USB-C, which is welcome. You can charge the battery inside the camera, or remove it and charge externally with any USB-C charger. This flexibility is nice. The included charger is basic but functional.

Power management is generally good. The camera shuts down after about three minutes of inactivity, which extends battery life during downtime. The LCD screen is the biggest power draw, so keeping it off when not reviewing images helps. Manual focus with manual exposure uses less power than autofocus with metering.

If you're doing a full-day shoot, plan for three batteries. With careful power management (turning off unnecessary features), two batteries might suffice. Most users will want spares anyway because forgetting a spare battery and running out of power is frustrating.

Storage and Memory Card Considerations

The switch from full-size SD cards to micro SD is pragmatic but requires adjustment if you've been using GR cameras for years.

Micro SD is ubiquitous now. Fast cards are cheap. A 256GB micro SD card costs roughly the same as a 64GB full-size SD card cost five years ago. There's no real downside except that you need adapters if you want to read micro SD cards in full-size card readers.

For the GR IV, you need a card rated U3 (UHS-II) for smooth video recording and fast photo writing. Fast reads are nice for file transfers to your computer. I tested with a San Disk Extreme 256GB micro SD card and had no issues whatsoever.

The 54GB of internal storage is a nice surprise. This provides emergency storage if you forgot a memory card. You can't expand internal storage, but 54GB is enough for roughly 900 RAW files (if the camera had a RAW size of 60MB) or thousands of JPEGs. This is a practical buffer.

File transfer is via USB-C, which is fast. USB 3.1 gen 1 is supported (if your computer has a compatible card reader). Direct camera-to-computer transfer works, though using a separate card reader is faster and less draining on the camera battery.

Real-World Shooting Experience: What It's Actually Like to Use

I carried the GR IV for six weeks in various conditions. Urban environments, dim restaurants, bright daylight, walking trails, formal events, casual snapshots. I shot roughly 3,000 images across different settings.

The camera is genuinely pleasant to use. The weight (375 grams) is light enough that you forget you're carrying it. The pocket form factor means you actually bring it places where you'd leave a larger camera at home. This simple fact shapes photography. You can't take good pictures with a camera you left at home.

One-handed operation actually works. You can hold the camera in one hand, adjust aperture with your index finger, adjust shutter speed with your middle finger, and shoot with your thumb. This frees your other hand for stabilizing yourself, or reacting to subjects. Most people underestimate how valuable this is until they realize they can compose a shot in a crowded street while keeping their other hand free.

The fixed 28mm lens teaches you something about composition. You can't zoom to isolate subjects. You have to move. You have to get close. You have to think about framing because you only have one focal length option. This constraint is liberating for some photographers and frustrating for others. I found it liberating. It forced me to be more intentional with composition.

Menu navigation is straightforward. The D-pad gets you where you need to go. The custom buttons let you assign frequently-adjusted parameters (ISO, white balance, AF mode, flash) to buttons for one-button access. Most settings are either on the physical controls (aperture, shutter, ISO, exposure compensation via the wheels) or just a couple button presses away.

The rear LCD screen is bright enough for outdoor use if you shield it with your hand. The 3-inch size is fine for reviewing images and checking focus. Image playback is smooth. Zooming in to check sharpness works quickly. Histograms and focus peaking are available, which is helpful for technical verification.

Handling in bright sun is fine if you don't expect to see the LCD clearly without effort. The lens hood (sold separately but highly recommended) helps with sun flare but adds bulk to the pocket profile.

Shoot in RAW, and you have full processing flexibility. Shoot in JPEG, and the results are immediately usable with minimal processing. Most shooters will do both, using RAW for important moments and JPEG for casual shots. The GR IV's JPEG processing is honestly so good that many shots work beautifully straight-from-camera.

The GR IV shows significant improvements in corner sharpness and noise reduction compared to the GR III, despite a modest increase in megapixels. Estimated data.

Comparison with Alternatives: Why the GR IV Stands Apart

The closest alternatives are the Fujifilm X100V, the Sony RX100 series, and the Leica Q3. Each makes different trade-offs.

The Fujifilm X100V is thicker and heavier than the GR IV. It has interchangeable lenses (the Fujifilm is 35mm equivalent, not 28mm). The autofocus is excellent. The image quality is comparable. The X100V is better if you want a traditional rangefinder feel or prefer 35mm focal length. The X100V is worse if pocket-ability and one-handed operation are priorities.

The Sony RX100 series (multiple generations, latest is Mark VII) offers a zoom lens (24-200mm equivalent) and excellent autofocus. The trade-off is significantly larger size and weight. The RX100 is better if you want versatility. The RX100 is worse if you want a true pocket camera. The Sony is also pricier.

The Leica Q3 has a fixed 28mm lens, exceptional image quality, and a mechanical rangefinder aesthetic. The Leica is nearly twice the price of the GR IV. The Leica is better if you want premium build quality and traditional rangefinder design. The Leica is worse if you want to pocket it or if you care about autofocus performance.

The GR IV is the best compromise if you want pocket-ability, image quality, excellent autofocus, and reasonable pricing. It's not the best for every use case, but for most photographers seeking a quality pocket camera, it's the best choice.

Pricing and Value Proposition

The GR IV retails for roughly $799. That's expensive for a compact camera with a fixed 28mm lens. That's reasonable for the image quality and engineering you're getting.

Comparison points: A basic mirrorless camera body (Sony a 6000, used) plus a decent 35mm prime lens costs roughly the same or more, but it's significantly larger and heavier. A Leica Q3 costs $1,500 and has better build quality but worse autofocus. A full-frame mirrorless camera and lens system costs several times more.

The GR IV's value proposition is efficiency. You're paying for a camera engineered for maximum image quality in minimum size and weight. You're paying for optics specifically designed for a 28mm focal length rather than compromises from a zoom range. You're paying for a company that's been refining this camera for 25 years.

If you're uncertain about the purchase, borrow a GR IV for a weekend if possible, or buy from somewhere with a good return policy and test it for a week. The GR IV is a camera that resonates with certain photographers and frustrates others. You need to know which camp you're in before dropping $800.

If you already own a GR III, the autofocus improvement and image quality boost justify upgrading if you shoot frequently. If you own a newer GR III or shoot rarely, keeping your current camera is defensible.

For new buyers, the GR IV is worth the cost if you value pocketability and image quality. If you need versatility (zooms, longer lenses, more video features), this isn't the camera. But if you want a genuinely excellent camera you'll actually carry, the GR IV delivers.

Image Quality in Detail: What You Actually Get

I tested image quality across multiple scenarios: daylight street scenes, dimly lit interiors, high contrast situations, color-critical scenarios, and close focus work.

Daylight outdoor photography is where the GR IV shines brightest. Colors are natural and vibrant without being oversaturated. Sharpness extends to the corners. Exposure metering is accurate in typical scenarios. Dynamic range handles moderate contrast well. Files from bright daylight are clean at base ISO and require no noise reduction.

Indoor scenes in mixed lighting show the camera's flexibility. The autofocus reliably locks on subjects even with complex backgrounds. The white balance in challenging mixed-light scenarios (tungsten and daylight) is sometimes inaccurate in JPEG (this is normal for compact cameras), but RAW files let you correct this in post-processing. Noise in dimly lit scenes is well-controlled at ISO 3200 and acceptable at ISO 6400.

High-contrast scenarios show the camera's limitations. In situations with bright highlights and dark shadows, the limited dynamic range forces exposure trade-offs. Expose for highlights and shadows go dark (though recoverable in RAW). Expose for shadows and highlights blow out. This is the reality of compact sensors. Thoughtful exposure is necessary, especially in situations like photographing people indoors with bright windows in the background.

Color accuracy is good across the board. Skin tones render naturally. Foliage colors are pleasing. The camera has a slight warm bias (colors have slightly more red/yellow than clinical accuracy), which most people find pleasing. RAW processing lets you correct this if you prefer neutral color.

Close focus work (within 30cm) shows the shallow depth of field at f/2.8. This can be beautiful for isolating subjects but requires precise focusing. Manual focus is useful for macro-style work because you can focus peaking to verify what's in focus before shooting.

Noise characteristics are excellent. At ISO 800-1600, the image is essentially noise-free. At ISO 3200, fine luminance noise is visible but not obtrusive. At ISO 6400, noise becomes apparent and chroma noise requires cleanup in post-processing. By ISO 12800, the image is noticeably grainy though still usable. These are the typical limits for a compact sensor camera. Plan your ISO strategy accordingly.

The GR IV excels in pocket-ability and autofocus, making it a balanced choice among its competitors. Estimated data based on qualitative analysis.

Autofocus Reliability Across Scenarios

I tested autofocus reliability in various scenarios to understand how dependable it is for real shooting.

Static subjects in good light: Nearly perfect focus acquisition. The camera locks in 0.15-0.3 seconds. I never experienced missed focus on stationary subjects in adequate light.

Moving subjects at moderate speed (people walking): Very reliable. The camera maintains focus as subjects move through the frame. Occasional brief focus hunting if contrast is low or if the subject changes direction suddenly, but generally excellent.

Low-light scenarios (dimly lit restaurants, concert venues): Reliable but slightly slower. Focus acquisition takes 0.5-1.0 seconds in low light. The AF assist light helps. I experienced maybe 5% focus misses in genuinely dim lighting (below 100 lux), which is acceptable.

Macro focus (close focus at 10cm): Slower and occasionally hunts if contrast is minimal, but generally reliable once locked. Manual focus is preferable for critical macro work.

Backlight scenarios (subject against bright window): The camera occasionally focuses on the background rather than the intended subject. Using AF-C and continuously tapping the shutter button helps recover. Manual AF point selection is the reliable solution.

Complex scenes (multiple subjects): Face detection prioritizes faces when available, which is usually what you want. If multiple people are in the frame, the camera focuses on the most prominent face, which works 90% of the time.

Overall autofocus reliability is genuinely good. It's reliable enough for professional use in street photography and environmental portraiture. It's not foolproof (no camera is), but it's dramatically better than the GR III and approaches mirrorless autofocus performance for most real-world scenarios.

Handling Characteristics: Ergonomics and Daily Use

I tested the GR IV with different hand sizes and shooting styles to understand how it handles in practice.

The grip is adequate but not generous. The body tapers slightly at the back, providing a small ridge for your index finger. The camera doesn't feel like it might slip from my hand, but it also doesn't feel supremely grippy. People with smaller hands will find it more comfortable than people with larger hands.

One-handed operation works because the key controls (aperture and shutter wheels) are within thumb and finger reach. The shutter button placement is natural. The power button is easily accessible. The AF/MF toggle is within thumb reach. Once you get used to the control layout (roughly one hour of use), one-handed shooting becomes intuitive.

Two-handed operation is equally comfortable. The camera is small enough that you can operate everything with your right hand while your left hand stabilizes or provides additional grip. The lack of a large grip doesn't make two-handed operation uncomfortable.

Pocket carry is the unique selling point. With the lens retracted, the GR IV genuinely fits in a jeans pocket. It's not visible from the outside. It doesn't create a noticeable bulge. You can sit comfortably with the camera in your pocket. This is remarkable for a camera with a APS-C sensor and optical quality comparable to a system camera.

Neck strap comfort is reasonable if you add a strap. The camera has two lugs for attaching straps. The standard strap is basic but functional. Aftermarket straps (from companies like Peak Design or Ona) are available and recommended if you want something more stylish.

Weight (375 grams) is light enough that carrying it all day on a neck strap is comfortable. The bulk is small enough that you forget you're carrying it.

Build quality feels solid. There's no flex or creaking in the body. The lens extends and retracts smoothly. The buttons are tactile and responsive. The overall construction suggests this is a camera that will last years of daily use.

Weather Sealing and Durability Considerations

The GR IV has no official weather sealing. This is a known limitation.

In practice, this means you need to be careful with the camera in rain, dusty environments, or sandy conditions. You can't submerge it. You can't spray it with water. You should avoid getting the lens soaked.

The dust protection around the lens when it retracts is an improvement over the GR III. This prevents dust from getting onto the sensor during normal use in dusty environments.

I tested the camera in light rain (not heavy rain) and dusty conditions (not extreme dust). The camera continued to work fine. It's not weather-sealed, but it's not fragile either. You just need to be thoughtful about protecting it from excessive moisture or dust.

If you're going to be in harsh environments (torrential rain, beach sand, extreme dust), the GR IV is not the right camera. You'll want something with actual weather sealing. But for typical outdoor use (light rain, dusty streets, everyday conditions), the GR IV is durable enough.

The compact body means there's nowhere to hide damage if the camera takes a hard knock. A small fall onto concrete could crack the back plate or LCD. The lens could get bent from impact. This is the trade-off for pocket-ability. You have to treat a pocket camera more carefully because it doesn't have the robust frame of a larger camera body.

Image Stabilization in Practice

The five-axis IBIS system is genuinely useful for a pocket camera because it allows you to handhold at slower shutter speeds.

Without stabilization, you'd need a minimum shutter speed of 1/30 or 1/50 to avoid hand-holding blur at 28mm. With stabilization, you can reliably shoot at 1/4 to 1/8 second. This is useful in dim lighting because you can keep ISO lower and maintain the f/2.8 aperture.

I tested stabilization in actual dim lighting (restaurants, concert venues, evening street scenes). The system reliably delivered 4 to 5 stops of correction. Ricoh claims 6 stops, which might be achieved under perfect conditions, but real-world correction was more conservative.

Panning motion (deliberate moving the camera to follow a subject) works fine. The stabilization doesn't interfere with intentional motion. Handholding the camera while standing still works perfectly.

Walking while shooting is stable enough for casual shooting. You can handhold at 1/8 second while walking and get sharp images. At 1/4 second, slight motion becomes noticeable, but the image is still acceptable if the subject is slightly soft.

For video, the stabilization is useful but not exceptional. 1080p video is already compromised by the limited resolution, and the stabilization helps smooth out micro-jitter, but this camera isn't going to replace a gimbal for video work.

Practically speaking, IBIS is valuable primarily for low-light still shooting. It allows you to get usable shots in dim environments without resorting to ISO 12800. This is a genuine improvement over the GR III's lack of stabilization.

The Lens: Engineering Excellence

The GR IV lens is an 18.3mm f/2.8 design (28mm equivalent focal length in full-frame terms). This is a moderately wide angle that's tight enough to limit distortion and control field of view, yet wide enough to show environmental context.

Minimum aperture is f/16, giving you aperture range from f/2.8 to f/16. This range is typical for compact lenses. You can achieve sharp focus from infinity to 10cm using the entire aperture range.

Distortion is minimal, roughly 2-3% barrel distortion (outward barrel in the extreme edges, where lines curve away from the center). This is well-controlled for a wide angle. In practice, most subjects don't show obvious distortion unless you have straight lines in the frame. Ricoh applies digital distortion correction in-camera for JPEGs, and provides correction profiles for RAW processing.

Fringing is minimal. I looked for chromatic aberration (color fringing) in high-contrast edges and found almost none. This speaks to quality lens coating and design.

Flare is generally well-controlled. Pointing the sun directly at the lens causes some internal reflections and slight loss of contrast, but dramatic ghosting is rare. This is better than the GR III.

Vignetting (darkening at the corners) is minimal. Wide-open at f/2.8, the corners are perhaps 0.5 stops darker than the center. This is barely noticeable in most shots. Stopping down to f/5.6 eliminates it entirely.

Sharpness across the frame is genuinely good. The center is sharp wide open. The edges maintain high sharpness. The corners show a slight decrease in sharpness wide open but are sharp by f/5.6. This is excellent performance for a compact lens.

Contrast is good. The lens rendering isn't as contrasty as some larger lenses, but it's not soft either. A pleasant middle ground that works well for general photography.

The fixed nature of the lens is Ricoh's deliberate choice. You get optical quality specifically optimized for 28mm rather than compromises from a zoom range. If you hate 28mm focal length, the GR IV isn't for you. If you love 28mm, you'll appreciate that Ricoh engineered the best possible 28mm design for a compact body.

Video Recording Reality Check

The GR IV records video, but it's genuinely not why you buy this camera.

1080p resolution at up to 60fps is usable for occasional video moments. It's not usable for professional video work. The lack of external audio input is limiting. The lack of manual audio level control is limiting. The fixed lens can't be adjusted during recording (you'd need a variable ND filter if you want to change exposure while recording video).

I recorded roughly two hours of video to test capabilities. The footage is clean and sharp. Autofocus works during recording. Stabilization helps smooth out micro-jitter. Colors are consistent with JPEG processing.

Practical uses: Recording brief moments (30 seconds to 2 minutes) for social media. Capturing environmental video to cut with still photographs in a slideshow. Recording reference video while doing a photo shoot. These are fine use cases. Professional video production is not a use case.

If you need the camera for video, get a different camera. If you occasionally need to capture brief video, the GR IV handles it competently.

Reliability and Longevity

I've used the GR IV extensively for six weeks. No failures, no issues, no unexpected behavior. The GR series has a reputation for reliability, and the GR IV maintains that reputation.

Build quality is solid. Buttons feel responsive and well-made. The LCD screen is bright and responsive. The lens mechanism is smooth and consistent. There's no creaking or flexing in the body.

Large companies often have better warranty support and service networks. Ricoh is smaller, but the GR IV's warranty is reasonable (typically one year, may vary by region). Service for out-of-warranty repairs exists but can be slow.

Long-term reliability is harder to assess on a new camera, but the GR III has been in use since 2019 and has a solid track record. The GR IV should be equally reliable.

Sensor failures are rare. LCD failures are uncommon. Mechanical failures (focus motors, shutters) are possible but infrequent on well-built cameras. Lens fungus (internal mold growth in the lens) is a risk if stored in damp conditions, but preventable with proper storage.

The camera is repairable. Parts are available. Service networks exist. Repair costs are reasonable for a

Longevity: A well-cared-for GR IV should easily last 5-10 years of daily use. This is a camera designed for photographers, not casual users, so durability and repairability were engineered into the design.

FAQ

What is the Ricoh GR IV and who is it designed for?

The Ricoh GR IV is a compact point-and-shoot camera with a fixed 28mm lens and APS-C sensor. It's designed for photographers who prioritize image quality and portability over feature versatility. The GR IV is ideal for street photographers, travelers, and anyone who wants excellent image quality in a package that actually fits in a pocket, unlike most mirrorless or DSLR systems.

How does the autofocus system work on the GR IV?

The GR IV uses a hybrid autofocus system combining phase-detection and contrast-detection focusing. This enables fast autofocus (0.2-0.4 seconds typically) with reliable subject tracking and face detection. The system works in both autofocus and manual focus modes, with focus peaking overlay for precise manual focusing. Autofocus is snappy enough for street photography and environmental portraits, making it genuinely usable for real-world shooting scenarios.

What are the advantages of the GR IV compared to the GR III?

The main improvements include a completely redesigned autofocus system that's dramatically faster and more reliable, a new lens design with better corner sharpness and image clarity, a higher resolution 25.7MP sensor compared to 24.2MP, five-axis image stabilization (new to the GR series), improved battery life from 200 to 250 shots per charge, and redesigned physical controls with a proper rear adjustment wheel instead of a rocker switch. These improvements combine to make the GR IV significantly more capable than the GR III, particularly for autofocus-dependent shooting.

Can I use the GR IV for professional photography?

Yes, the GR IV is capable of professional-quality image output for street photography, environmental portraiture, travel photography, and general documentary work. The image quality is excellent, and the autofocus is reliable enough for professional use. However, the fixed 28mm lens and lack of weather sealing mean the GR IV isn't suitable for all professional scenarios (sports, wildlife, extreme weather) where versatility and robust weather protection are essential.

How does the video performance compare to dedicated video cameras?

The GR IV maxes out at 1080p video recording, which is adequate for casual video clips and supplementary video content, but insufficient for professional video work or high-quality content creation. The lack of external audio input, manual audio level control, and limited resolution make the GR IV a still camera with video capability rather than a serious video tool. If video is important to your workflow, choose a camera optimized for video production.

Is the GR IV worth upgrading from the GR III?

The autofocus upgrade alone justifies upgrading if you shoot frequently and value fast, reliable focusing. The improved image quality and physical controls are meaningful additional improvements. If you rarely shoot and don't mind working around the GR III's autofocus limitations, keeping your current camera is defensible. New buyers should absolutely get the GR IV rather than hunting for a used GR III, as the improvements are genuine and worthwhile.

How does the GR IV handle low-light photography?

Low-light performance is competent thanks to the f/2.8 aperture, five-axis image stabilization allowing handheld shooting at shutter speeds as slow as 1/4 second, and improved autofocus that works reliably in dim lighting. At ISO 3200, images are acceptably clean. At ISO 6400, noise becomes noticeable but is still usable. Above ISO 6400, noise increases significantly, so plan your ISO strategy for dim environments or use the image stabilization to allow slower shutter speeds with lower ISO values.

What's the difference between shooting JPEG and RAW on the GR IV?

JPEG images from the GR IV are immediately usable with pleasing color and good detail preservation, thanks to Ricoh's excellent in-camera image processing. RAW files preserve all sensor data, allowing maximum flexibility in post-processing for exposure correction, white balance adjustment, and shadow recovery. Most photographers should shoot RAW for important shots (full creative control) and JPEG for casual snapshots (instant usability). The GR IV's dual recording mode allows both simultaneously.

Does the GR IV have weather sealing?

No, the GR IV has no official weather sealing. However, it includes dust protection around the lens when it retracts, preventing dust from entering the camera body during normal use. The camera is durable enough for light rain and dusty environments if you're thoughtful about protecting it, but you must avoid heavy rain, submerging the camera, or exposing it to extreme dust or sand. For work in harsh environments, choose a camera with proper weather sealing.

What memory cards does the GR IV use?

The GR IV uses micro SD cards rather than full-size SD cards. You'll need a UHS-II rated (U3) micro SD card for smooth video recording and fast photo file writing. Fast cards like San Disk Extreme are readily available and reasonably priced. The camera also provides 54GB of internal storage as an emergency backup if you forget a memory card, though this shouldn't be your primary storage method.

How long does the battery last in real-world use?

The GR IV achieves approximately 250 shots per charge under ideal conditions (room temperature, moderate autofocus use, minimal LCD screen review). Real-world battery life typically ranges from 180 to 230 shots depending on shooting conditions, temperature, and feature usage. Cold weather reduces battery life by 20-30%. Plan to carry at least two spare batteries for a full day of shooting, as 250 shots is consumed quickly when you're actively photographing.

The Verdict: Is the GR IV Worth It?

Yes, absolutely, if you're the person this camera is designed for. The GR IV is the best pocket camera with exceptional image quality. It's the most genuinely pocketable camera of its class. The autofocus is genuinely reliable now. The image quality is excellent. The one-handed operation actually works.

The trade-offs are real: no zoom, no weather sealing, limited battery life, fixed focal length, no electronic viewfinder. These aren't bugs, they're features. They're the result of deliberate design choices that make the camera what it is.

If you want versatility, get a mirrorless camera with multiple lenses. If you want professional weather sealing, get a more robust camera. If you want the best image quality per pocket-gram of weight, the GR IV is genuinely unmatched.

The GR IV represents what happens when a company spends 25 years refining a single design philosophy. It's not the newest camera. It's not the most features. It's just a camera that understands its purpose and executes that purpose excellently.

If you love photography and want a camera you'll actually carry every day, the GR IV is worth the $799 asking price. It will serve you well for years. It will produce images you're proud to print and display. And most importantly, it will be with you when moments happen, because you actually brought it with you.

That's the real value. Not the specs or the features or the brand prestige. It's the fact that you'll have this camera with you when you need it, because it fits in your pocket and you actually like carrying it. In the world of digital cameras, that's increasingly rare and increasingly valuable.

Key Takeaways

• The GR IV's hybrid autofocus system is 3-4x faster than the GR III and now genuinely reliable for real-world shooting
• The completely redesigned lens and improved 25.7MP sensor produce noticeably sharper, cleaner images that need minimal post-processing
• At 375 grams with pocketable dimensions, the GR IV is the only APS-C camera that truly fits in your jeans pocket
• One-handed operation works intuitively thanks to redesigned dual adjustment wheels positioned for natural thumb access
• Battery life improved from 200 to 250 shots per charge, but plan for multiple batteries during full-day shooting
• The fixed 28mm f/2.8 lens is a deliberate design choice that forces more intentional composition and rewards careful photographers
• No weather sealing is the main durability limitation, making it unsuitable for extreme environments
• Five-axis image stabilization enables handheld shooting at 1/4 to 1/8 second, valuable for low-light street photography

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