RICOH has officially unveiled the GR IV, a long-awaited update to its cult-favorite compact camera line, arriving mid-September at $1,500. Known as a street photography essential, the GR series has always blended pocket-sized portability with impressive APS-C sensor performance, and the GR IV pushes that formula forward with a new 26-megapixel APS-C sensor, a redesigned 28mm-equivalent f/2.8 lens, improved autofocus and stabilization systems, and a generous 53GB of onboard storage to back up its microSD slot. Alongside the launch, RICOH is also releasing the tiny GF-2 add-on flash at $119.95.

It’s been over six years since the release of the GR III in 2019, and in that time, the Fujifilm X100 line has dominated the conversation. The RICOH GR IV counters with an even more compact package, a wider lens, and a discreet, viewfinder-free design. Its fixed-lens setup is ideal for fast-paced shooting, offering the kind of minimalism that appeals to purists who prefer capturing moments without distraction.

One of the RICOH GR series’ original calling cards was affordability. The GR III launched for under $1,000, but the GR IV comes in at $600 more, reflecting broader camera industry price hikes tied to tariffs and rising costs. Still, at $1,500, the GR IV undercuts the $1,800 Fujifilm X100VI and remains considerably cheaper than Leica’s Q series, making it a competitive entry point for photographers chasing the pocketable fixed-lens aesthetic.

Compact yet powerful, discreet yet capable, the Ricoh GR IV cements itself as a premium option for photographers who demand stealth, quality, and reliability in the streets.

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