Ricoh has updated its rangefinder-esque camera, the GR Digital III, with this new model.
External elements are all but identical to its predecessor, providing a reassuring upgrade to those photographers who are used to the Ricoh ecosystem. With little to no badging identifying its brand on the front, and just a small sliver of silver underneath the 3-inch LCD screen at the back touting the brand name, you’d be forgiven for thinking that this camera wants to be a bit incognito.
It’s an all-black box (apart from the limited edition white colour), with a rubberised grip on the right-hand side, protruding from the diminutive frame, which adds a reasonable amount of bulk, weighing it down accordingly for one-handed shooters.
It’s a touch lighter than the older camera at 190 grams, rather than 208, with battery. Elsewhere, there’s a small flash nestled at the top corner that pops out only when needed via a dedicated switch on the side. The hotshoe is covered with a small plastic piece that can be removed to attach a viewfinder or external flash, and a standard shutter and power button can be found nearby. Designed for serious photographers, the Ricoh GR Digital IV will appeal, thanks to its fixed-focal-length lens and its fast maximum aperture.
There’s also a range of artistic filters to keep point-and-shooters happy, but the real achievement is the responsive autofocus, which sets the pace for all other compacts on the market.