Published on June 30, 2025 by CameraMarket
Ricoh has announced the launch of the long-awaited GR IV for late 2025. Based on the popular GR series and capitalizing on the rise of compact cameras, many photographers expect the GR IV to be one of the most important releases of the year.
In May, Ricoh shared the first official specifications. In this article, we tell you everything we know so far about the GR IV, how it compares to previous models, and what interesting alternatives you might consider.
✅ Confirmed Specifications of the Ricoh GR IV
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Sensor | APS-C |
| Lens | 18.3mm f/2.8 (28mm equivalent) |
| Megapixels | 25.7 |
| Resolution | 6192x4128 |
| ISO | 100–204,800 |
| Max Shutter Speed | 1/4000 |
| Autofocus | Phase, contrast, eye and face detection |
| Stabilization | 5-axis IBIS |
| Max Video | 1080p, 60 fps |
| Internal Memory | 53 GB |
| Cards | MicroSD |
| Port | USB-C |
| Battery | To be confirmed |
| Dimensions (mm) | 109 x 61 x 33 |
| Weight (g) | 262 |
📷 Comparison: Ricoh GR IV vs GR III
Sensor and Image Processing
The GR IV incorporates a 25.7-megapixel APS-C sensor, a slight increase over the 24.2 MP of the GR III. Although the resolution improvement is modest, the native ISO range doubles to 204,800, offering better performance in low-light conditions.
Lens Design and Optical Performance
The 18.3mm f/2.8 lens remains (28mm full-frame equivalent). While the GR III's lens was excellent, it showed some softness in the corners at maximum aperture. The GR IV's lens is expected to improve on this. A GR IVx version with a 23mm lens (40mm equivalent) could also appear in the future.
Advanced Autofocus
The hybrid system combines phase detection and contrast detection, with Auto, Zone, Select, Spot, Tracking, Continuous, and Manual modes. It includes eye and face detection. The popular Snap Focus mode remains, with predefined distances for instant focusing.
Stabilization and Vibration Reduction
Stabilization improves to 5 axes (previously 3 on the GR III). Combined with the expanded ISO range, it promises better results in low-light and handheld photography.
Storage and Connectivity
Internal storage increases from 2GB to 53GB, enough for hundreds of RAW and JPEG photos. It switches to microSD cards. Additionally, it includes dual-band Wi-Fi compatible with Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and a USB-C port for charging and data transfer.
Design and Controls
It maintains its compact size (109x61x33mm) and light weight (262g), ideal for a pocket. The rear screen remains a fixed 3-inch touchscreen with 1.04 million dots.
Limitations of the Compact Design
- No built-in viewfinder (compatible with external viewfinders).
- Rear screen is not tilting.
- No weather sealing.
- No built-in flash (but has a hot shoe for external flash).
- No 4K recording (limited to 1080p).
📸 Alternatives to the Ricoh GR IV
If you are looking for compact cameras for street photography or travel, here are some comparable options:
✅ Ricoh GR III and GR IIIx
The most logical option if you want something similar. The GR III retains the 28mm equivalent lens and a super compact design. The Snap Focus mode makes it ideal for the street. The GR IIIx offers a 23mm lens (40mm equivalent) for tighter framing.
✅ Fujifilm X100V / X100VI
Larger and more premium, with advantages such as a hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder, f/2 lens equivalent to 35mm, 4K recording, weather sealing (with adapter), and the famous Fuji film simulations.
✅ Fujifilm X half
A smaller and more affordable alternative. It uses a 1-inch sensor (less quality than APS-C), but is extremely portable and pocketable.
✅ Leica Q3
For those seeking the best regardless of price. Full-frame sensor, fixed f/1.7 28mm lens, electronic viewfinder, sealed construction, and video up to 8K. Much larger and more expensive, but with exceptional quality.
✅ Sony RX100 VII
Perfect for travel. Versatile zoom, pop-up electronic viewfinder, and compact design. Although its 1-inch sensor does not match APS-C in low light, it offers great flexibility in a very portable size.
❓ Is it worth upgrading to the Ricoh GR IV?
If you already have the GR III, the improvements are not radical. However, the 5-axis stabilization, wider ISO range, and larger internal storage could justify the upgrade for those seeking that extra convenience and performance.
At CameraMarket we will be on the lookout to test it as soon as it is available and offer you our full review. In the meantime, explore our compact cameras and find the ideal one for you.
