Monochrome and ND filterless versions of the Ricoh GR IV are coming

Ricoh has announced it will release two new variants of its GR IV compact camera: a monochrome edition, marking the first time the series has offered a black-and-white sensor, and a model that replaces the built-in ND filter with a highlight diffusion filter (HDF).

Both models will be based on the original GR IV, retaining its pocketable body, 18.3mm F2.8 (28mm F4 equivalent) lens, and user-friendly controls.

According to Ricoh, the HDF version uses the same 26MP APS-C sensor with a Bayer colour filter, while the monochrome model will keep the same sensor size and resolution but omits the colour filter entirely.

Ricoh says the monochrome GR IV will include image control options specifically for black-and-white photography, building on the GR IV’s existing black-and-white modes.

HDF filters are popular for their soft, diffuse effect, and monochrome sensors typically offer about a 1EV noise advantage over colour sensors.

Ricoh says it expects the HDF variant to launch in winter 2025 or later, with the monochrome version following in spring 2026.