Ricoh GR IV review: Everyone’s favorite pocket camera just got better

When I reviewed the GR III, I wrote about how much I liked the instant focus mode, which lets you set a predetermined focusing distance regardless of the aperture. I set my GR III to use autofocus when I press the shutter button halfway and snap when I press quickly, so that snap focus triggers shooting at my predetermined focusing distance (usually 1.5 meters).

All that remains, but there’s also now a dedicated letter, Sn, on the mode dial that sets the camera to Snap Focus mode, allowing you to dial in not only the distance you want to focus, but also the aperture you want to lock. You can also control the depth of field. I quite enjoyed this new mode and found myself shooting quite a bit with it.

Should you get one?

The GR IV debuted at $1,497, which is significantly more than the GR III’s $999 price at launch. Is it worth the extra money? If you own a GR III and are frustrated with autofocus, I think you’ll appreciate the upgrade. It’s important and, if you have the money, it’s definitely worth it.

If you want to use your pocket camera for video, this isn’t the one for you. Consult our guides for pocket cameras And the best travel cameras for better hybrid photo and video cameras. If you want an APS-C sensor that fits legitimately in your pocket, offers incredible one-handed control, and produces excellent images, the Ricoh GR IV is for you.

Personally, I’m waiting for the GR IVx, which hopefully, like the GR IIIx, will be the same camera with a 40mm equivalent lens. At the time of writing, Ricoh would not comment on whether there would be a GR IVx.