Ricoh GR IV HDF and GR IV Monochrome: New GR Variants Announced

Ricoh Imaging has officially announced development of two new variants of the GR IV compact: the GR IV HDF and the GR IV Monochrome. Both models are built on the pocketable GR IV platform, retaining the same compact body, intuitive controls and the revised built‑in 18.3 mm f/2.8 prime lens (approx. 28 mm, f/4 equivalent). Ricoh’s development notices position the pair as targeted alternatives for photographers who want either a built‑in diffusion look or a dedicated black‑and‑white capture option.

What’s new: HDF vs Monochrome

• GR IV HDF: Replaces the standard GR IV’s built‑in ND option with Ricoh’s Highlight Diffusion Filter (HDF). The HDF is a selectable, built‑in effect designed to soften highlights and produce a dreamier, low‑contrast glow without extra accessories. Sensor, lens, body size and core ergonomics match the GR IV; the HDF simply adds an on‑demand creative look via a function button.
  • Expected to be release in late 2025 or early 2026
  • 25.7 MP sensor
  • 18mm f/2.8 (28mm equivalent)
  • HDF (Highlight Diffusion Filter)
  • ISO: 100 to 204800

• GR IV Monochrome: Uses a dedicated monochrome APS‑C sensor (same 25.7 MP/26 MP class resolution and physical size as the color GR IV) that omits the Bayer color filter array. That change yields native black‑and‑white capture with finer tonal gradation, improved high‑ISO performance per pixel, and more usable luminance detail compared with demosaiced color conversions. Ricoh says the Monochrome will also include Image Control options tuned for monochrome expression.
  • Expected to be release in late 2025 or early 2026
  • 25.7 MP sensor
  • 18mm f/2.8 (28mm equivalent)
  • Monochrome sensor
  • ISO: 160 to 409600

Core shared specs (based on Ricoh development materials)

• Lens: 18.3 mm f/2.8 fixed (≈28 mm equivalent).
• Sensor size/resolution: ~25.7 MP APS‑C (HDF: Bayer/color; Monochrome: no color filter).
• Body: Same pocketable GR IV chassis, controls and improved ergonomics.
• Stabilization & AF: Retains GR IV’s improved Shake Reduction (SR) and faster autofocus improvements.
• Image controls: Expanded Image Control presets and adjustable parameters (including B/W‑specific settings on the Monochrome).
• Additional modes: Crop shooting (35 mm / 50 mm equivalents) and the familiar GR full‑press snap functions remain.

Release timing and pricing

• Ricoh’s press notices cite the GR IV HDF as expected in “winter 2025 or later.” The GR IV Monochrome is slated for “spring 2026.” Exact launch dates and retail pricing are still to be determined.

Who each model is for

• GR IV HDF: Street, portrait and lifestyle shooters who want a dual‑personality compact — the classic GR sharpness for everyday edges, and a soft, diffused highlight look instantly available without filters or post processing. It’s ideal for photographers who favor moodier, nostalgic renders alongside crisp reportage.
• GR IV Monochrome: Dedicated black‑and‑white photographers, street/documentary shooters, and anyone who prefers to capture tonal nuance and film‑like gradation straight from the sensor. The absence of a color filter means better luminance sensitivity and finer grain rendering at equivalent ISOs versus color sensors converted to B/W.

Practical considerations

• Workflow: Monochrome RAW files from a native mono sensor will differ from converted color RAWs; expect unique tonal curves and potentially different post workflows (some editors add dedicated mono processing profiles). HDF images are created in‑camera and may require less post for the final look, though RAW capture should still permit further refinement.
• Availability: Because these are development announcements, specs could shift before final launch. No pricing yet — compare to the standard GR IV to estimate market positioning once Ricoh confirms MSRP.