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Ricoh unveils limited-edition GR IV for series anniversary

Published on 02/10/2026 • By Isab Baker

Ricoh has introduced a limited-edition version of its GR IV camera to mark the 30th anniversary of the GR series, with production capped at 6,000 units worldwide. Dubbed the GR IV 30th Anniversary Edition, this model preserves all the technical specifications of the standard GR IV while incorporating exclusive design elements and a commemorative package. The camera was officially announced on September 16, 2026, with availability starting on October 21, 2026, and a listed price of €1,699.99.

The anniversary edition’s exterior design draws direct inspiration from the original GR1, which debuted in 1996. The shutter button and rear control panel feature a dark silver finish reminiscent of the first model, while the GN-3 (30th) lens cap replicates the diamond-cut pattern found around the GR1’s lens. When the cap is retracted, its faceted surface scatters light to prevent flare during exposures, while the camera displays a custom anniversary graphic upon power-off.

Owners also receive a custom leather finger strap engraved with anniversary markings and a metal hot-shoe cover. The package includes sixteen pins: fourteen representing past GR camera models, plus two bearing the series logo and a 30th anniversary emblem. The strap’s black exterior and light-gray lining echo the aesthetic of earlier models in the series. Additionally, the anniversary edition includes a specially designed metallic cover for the hot shoe, further enhancing its premium feel. Some components of the anniversary kit, such as the pins and the strap, will also be available for separate purchase.

Unchanged Core Performance Specifications

The GR IV’s core technical specifications remain unchanged in the anniversary model. It retains the same 25.74-megapixel backside-illuminated APS-C sensor, paired with the GR Engine 7 processor and a dedicated acceleration chip. The ISO range extends from 100–204,800, with support for 14-bit DNG RAW files and in-camera RAW-to-JPEG development. The sensor’s high sensitivity allows for flexible shooting in diverse lighting conditions, while the processor ensures rapid image processing and reduced noise at raised ISO settings.

The fixed 18.3mm f/2.8 lens—equivalent to 28mm on full-frame sensors—features seven optical elements in five groups, including three aspherical lenses. Five-axis sensor-shift stabilization compensates for up to 6 stops of shake at the center and 4 stops at the edges, according to CIPA 2024 testing standards. The camera achieves a 0.6-second power-up time, the fastest in the GR series, through optimizations in the lens barrel and startup sequence. The camera also offers crop modes simulating 35mm and 50mm focal lengths, with corresponding resolutions of 15MP and 7MP.

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The GR IV’s ergonomic design emphasizes speed and intuitive operation. The traditional ADJ lever has been replaced by a dial, while the Hyper-Function allows users to cycle between program, aperture-priority, and shutter-priority modes with a simple twist. The Full Press Snap feature enables instant focus-free shots at a preset distance by fully depressing the shutter button. These refinements align with Ricoh’s commitment to maintaining the GR series’ reputation for effortless, instinctive handling, particularly in fast-paced shooting scenarios.

Advanced Focus, Connectivity, and Display

Autofocus performance combines phase and contrast detection, with noticeable improvements in low-light conditions and subject tracking accuracy. Macro mode operation and lens retraction during power-off have also been accelerated. The camera’s 3-inch touchscreen supports wireless transfers via WLAN and Bluetooth 5.3, along with remote control and image-sharing functionality through a dedicated app. The display features an anti-reflective coating and adaptive brightness adjustment to enhance visibility in varying ambient light, while the touch interface provides responsive navigation through menus and settings.

The Image Control system offers a range of preset film simulations, including a new Cinema mode with adjustable yellow or green tinting. Users can modify grain, saturation, and contrast levels, with custom profiles available for saving. Additional styles cover Negative Film, Slide Film, Bleach Bypass, and multiple black-and-white variations.

Internal storage capacity measures 53GB, sufficient for approximately 995 RAW files or 3,500 JPEGs at maximum resolution. Expansion is possible via a microSD slot. The DB-120 battery provides roughly 250 shots per charge under CIPA testing, with USB-C charging support.

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