NEWS
Ricoh’s GR IV Monochrome Camera Launched
Posted on 2026-01-16 , by News Service
Latest on Ricoh’s GR IV Monochrome Camera Ricoh has officially launched the GR IV Monochrome, marking the first time the iconic GR series has been purpose-built for dedicated black-and-white photography. This announcement represents a rare and bold step for Ricoh, appealing directly to street photographers, fine-art shooters, and enthusiasts who crave pure monochrome expression from a compact, pocket-sized camera. Launch Date & Availability The Ricoh GR IV Monochrome is scheduled to begin shipping in mid-February 2026, with preorders already open through major retailers. This model follows Ricoh’s broader launch cycle for the GR IV lineup, with the standard GR IV introduced in Autumn 2025 and the Monochrome version tailored specifically to black-and-white imagery. Pricing Ricoh has set the **U.S. retail price at approximately $2,199.95, about $700 above the standard color GR IV model — a premium that reflects the specialized monochrome sensor and the niche market this camera targets. What Makes It Unique Unlike standard digital cameras that capture color and then convert to black-and-white in software, the GR IV Monochrome features a dedicated monochrome image sensor without a color filter array — meaning it captures only luminance values, maximizing sharpness, tonal gradation, and micro-detail straight out of the camera. Key features include: 25.74 MP APS-C monochrome CMOS sensor with no Bayer color filter — a sensor optimized for black-and-white imagery rather than conversion from color. Supports extremely high ISO sensitivities, reportedly up to ISO 409,600, taking advantage of the absence of color filters to increase light sensitivity for low-light shooting. Built-in red contrast filter selectable via a dedicated function, which emulates classic analog techniques to deepen skies and enhance contrast without external accessories. Compact, pocketable design consistent with the GR family’s street-photography heritage, retaining the slim form and intuitive control layout that long-time fans appreciate. Design & Handling The Monochrome version maintains the sleek GR IV body design — a compact, magnesium-alloy shell with minimalist control layout — but introduces thoughtful aesthetic tweaks like a matte finish and blacked-out GR logo to distinguish it from its color sibling. Positioning & Reception This camera is not designed to replace versatile color systems but instead celebrates the art of black-and-white photography — similar in spirit to high-end monochrome cameras from other manufacturers. It sits in a premium niche, more specialized than mainstream mirrorless or compact models, and aims to rival the allure of dedicated monochrome cameras for photographers who prefer pure tonal capture over post-conversion. Early reactions from the photography community emphasize both the excitement over a dedicated black-and-white tool and scrutiny of the pricing relative to the regular GR IV. Enthusiasts appreciate the pure monochrome experience, while others question whether the cost premium is justified for a niche use case. Why It Matters The Ricoh GR IV Monochrome represents a reinvigoration of interest in dedicated monochrome imaging at a time when most digital cameras still rely on color sensors and software conversion. For photographers who want an instant, uncompromised black-and-white workflow, Ricoh’s approach offers an enticing alternative that blends classic aesthetic priorities with modern sensor technology. Whether it becomes a classic tool in its own right, or mainly a creative curiosity for dedicated black-and-white shooters, it stands as one of the most talked-about camera launches of early 2026. If you’d like, I can also compare the GR IV Monochrome vs. the regular GR IV in detail (sensor differences, real-world performance, and who should buy which).
