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Ricoh GR Digital IV Review :: There is lots to love

Updated: Feb 29

The Ricoh GR Digital IV remains a formidable contender in the realm of compact cameras, even by today's standards. Its enduring appeal lies in its exceptional image quality, compact form factor, and advanced features.


Ricoh GR Digital IV product shot
The Ricoh GR Digital IV was released in September 2011.
The Ricoh GR Digital 4 was released in September 2011.

Equipped with a 10-megapixel CCD sensor and a fast f/1.9 lens, the GR Digital IV produces stunningly sharp and detailed images.


The small 1/1.7 inch sensor may seem like a downside but on the streets with good lighting it just means you have an inherent depth of field which street photographers love.


Its fixed focal length of 28mm offers versatility for a variety of shooting scenarios, from street photography to landscapes.


One standout feature is its intuitive user interface, providing easy access to a plethora of manual controls and customizable settings, allowing photographers to fine-tune their shots precisely to their liking. Ricoh cameras are know for their one handed control. Additionally, its high-resolution 3-inch LCD screen ensures accurate framing and playback.


Despite being released several years ago, the GR Digital IV remains relevant due to its timeless design and performance. Its robust build quality ensures longevity, while its compact size makes it an ideal companion for photographers on the go.


Its RAW shooting capability provides ample room for post-processing, allowing photographers to unleash their creativity in editing software. Overall, the Ricoh GR Digital IV continues to be a highly regarded choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike, thanks to its winning combination of image quality, usability, and portability.





The Ricoh GR Digital IV point-and-shoot camera is appreciated for several reasons:


Image Quality


It boasts a high-quality image sensor and lens, producing sharp and detailed images.

Compact Size


Its small and lightweight design makes it highly portable, perfect for everyday carry or travel photography. Although it is small the handling is fantastic. The grip feels great in the hand and a joy to use.


Fixed Focal Length Lens


The fixed focal length lens (28mm equivalent) is renowned for its sharpness and clarity, ideal for street photography and landscapes. This takes out the guess work with lens choices.


Customization Options


The camera offers extensive customization options, allowing users to tailor settings to their preferences and shooting style. It was truly ahead of its time. Most cameras in this time did not come close.


Manual Controls


Despite being a compact camera, it offers manual control options, giving photographers more creative freedom. You have the full PASM dial experience. It works well in Manual mode since it has all 3 ways to control the exposure triangle.


Build Quality


Ricoh is known for its durable build quality, ensuring the camera can withstand the rigors of daily use.


Macro Capability


It has a surprisingly good macro mode, enabling close-up photography of small subjects with impressive detail. This is one of the advantages of having the small sensor and wide angle lense. You get an inherent close focusing distance.


Quick Performance


The camera has fast autofocus and minimal shutter lag, allowing users to capture decisive moments without delay.


Overall, the Ricoh GR Digital IV is favored by enthusiasts and professionals alike for its combination of image quality, compactness, and advanced features. Its and oldie but goodie that's DNA is still present in the current APS-C lineup today. This little camera still has a lot of life left in it and for a small sensor camera it packs a punch if used properly.


Photo Gallery using the Ricoh GRD IV



My name is Jason Logan. I'm a photographer and content creator from Jersey City, NJ. You can find more about my website below.


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